The recent theft of $50,000 from the Chinese Buddhist Association of Hawaii in Nuuanu appears to be the work of a serial thief who has stolen several times from another temple in Honolulu, temple members say.

“Somehow, he has to be stopped,” said Jeanne Lum, association president.

A man pretending to help workers in preparation for the temple’s 60th anniversary went through belongings of seven visiting monks from China and stole a total of $50,000 Tuesday, she said. The man’s identity is unknown.

Honolulu police are investigating.