Search underway for serial thief targeting Gold Coast cafes

A major search is underway for a serial tip jar thief targeting cafes across the Gold Coast.

The woman has been caught red-handed on CCTV emptying tip jars and charity tins directly into her handbag before casually walking off.

The brazen crime spree came to light after Goya Cafe in Broadbeach posted security footage of the culprit online.

The video quickly went viral, prompting a wave of fellow business owners to come forward with their own footage appearing to show the exact same woman targeting their stores.

The scale of the theft stretches from cafes in Broadbeach all the way south through Miami, Coolangatta, and Kirra.

Queensland Police have confirmed they are investigating.