Police are investigating a Wednesday evening theft from a Salina restaurant.

Police say that a large amount of cash was stolen from the Hong Kong Buffet at 2515 Market Place. At about 5:30 in the evening a group of four women and one man came into the restaurant and inquired about accomodations for a large group. An employee took one of the group members to a back room to show what accommodations the restaraunt could offer, and left the lobby area unattended.

While the employee was distracted in the other room, one of the group members who stayed behind went behind a counter and took cash from a cabinet.

The theft was not discovered until about 10:30 in the evening. A review of security video revealed how the money was taken.

Police say that it appears the group of people were working together, and knew what they were doing.

Total loss is listed at over $1,000.