Hugging Trick at the Beach
In the early hours of September 20, 2025, around 2:36 AM, police were called to Pattaya Beach. The 24-year-old Mr. Devda from India was visibly distraught: while enjoying the night air with a friend, a group of transgender individuals approached and offered him company.
However, the seemingly friendly gesture turned out to be a devious trap: the group hugged and touched the tourists, skillfully stealing Devda’s 25-30 gram gold chain. By the time the Indian tourist realized what had happened, the thieves had already fled in different directions.
Police Reviewing CCTV Footage
Lt. Manasak Phonyiam, Deputy Investigation Chief of Pattaya City Police, immediately launched an investigation. “We are questioning the victim in detail and reviewing all surveillance videos from the area,” the officer explained.
The police, led by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo, believe this was a professional pickpocketing operation. The culprits used physical proximity to distract their victims and rob them. Devda had no chance: “They first tried to hold me, then they were just gone—and so was my chain.”
Pattaya’s Nightlife Has Its Dark Side
The incident highlights the darker side of Pattaya’s tourist paradise. Time and again, tourists fall prey to pickpockets who exploit the relaxed atmosphere of the beach promenade for their criminal activities.
The police warn: “Tourists should stay alert and keep an eye on their valuables.” Extra caution is advised in nighttime crowds. Valuables do not belong on the beach—especially not expensive gold chains.
Manhunt in Full Swing
Investigators are currently reviewing all available CCTV footage from shops and hotels along Beach Road. They are confident that the group of thieves will be quickly identified and arrested. “We are pursuing all legal avenues,” said Lt. Manasak. The thieves are guilty not only of theft but also of assault. If caught, they face several years in prison—and deportation after serving their sentence.