Was she mugged or robbed? Those are the only two excuses I can think of for allowing something this ridiculous to happen that deserve any sympathy. Those are all things to keep on you at all times. Not checked in your bag, Not up in the overhead bin, not in the seat pocket in front of you... not up in the hotel room while you are at the pool or whatever.

It sucks for her, but I'm betting it was easily prevented.