PHUKET, THAILAND – A foreign man stole a motorcycle in Phuket’s Samkong area on 11 November after pretending to pet a dog, according to CCTV footage reviewed by local police.
Unusual deception in Samkong
Witnesses said the man approached a dog near a private property on 11 November in Samkong, Phuket City, before climbing onto a parked motorcycle and speeding away within seconds. The incident occurred in full view of the vehicle’s owner.
“He pretended to show affection for the dog and patted it,”
said Unnamed Eyewitness.
Investigators confirmed that surveillance cameras recorded the suspect in casual clothing moments before he sped off toward Bangkok Hospital Phuket.
Police follow camera trail
Officers from Phuket City Police Station began checking additional recordings from nearby shops and traffic junctions to identify his escape route.
“The relaxed behaviour appeared to be a deliberate distraction,”
said Phuket Police Investigative Unit.
Search continues for foreign suspect
Authorities said they are examining whether the man acted alone or was connected to a larger network involved in similar thefts. Several recent reports described motorcycles being stolen from popular neighbourhoods under comparable circumstances.
“Did the man act alone, or is he part of a network?”
asked Phuket Police Spokesperson.
Investigators encouraged residents to report any relevant information.
“Anyone who saw something should come forward,”
said Phuket Police Spokesperson.
Similar case in Pattaya
In August, law enforcement in Pattaya arrested another foreign individual after a comparable motorcycle theft near Walking Street. Witnesses said the man appeared under the influence of drugs when several motorbike taxi drivers chased him through narrow lanes.
“We caught him at the old pier,”
said Unnamed Pattaya Pursuer.
Police detained the Pattaya suspect for questioning about previous incidents.
Public urged to stay cautious
Phuket authorities issued a renewed safety warning to both locals and tourists, encouraging secure parking and use of locks at all times.
“Never leave your motorcycle unsecured,”
warned Phuket Police Spokesperson.
Officials also cautioned that apparently harmless interactions could mask planned distractions used by experienced thieves. Officers stated that multiple cameras recorded the Phuket suspect, and the investigation remains active.
– Incident date: 11 November
– Location: Samkong, Phuket City
– Suspect: foreign male, unidentified
– Evidence: CCTV footage, eyewitness statements
– Police actions: reviewing shop and traffic camera footage, public appeal for information
– Safety advice: keep motorcycles locked, report suspicious activity immediately