BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thai tourist police arrested two Algerian men suspected of stealing from holidaymakers on the crowded BTS Skytrain in the capital.
Holiday security operation targets pickpockets
Under direct orders from Police General Kitrat Phanphet, the national police chief, security measures over the holiday period were sharply increased. The tourist police led by Lieutenant General Saksira Pueak-am deployed additional patrols to track down foreign gangs operating in tourist hotspots and public transport. Investigators from Tourist Police Division 1 quickly focused on a group believed to have struck on packed BTS trains.
Complaint from Chinese tourist triggered probe
The case began with a report by a Chinese tourist on 30 December, who said his wallet had been stolen between Asok and Phrom Phong stations. CCTV analysis provided the breakthrough, allowing officers to identify two foreign men allegedly involved in the theft. One suspect was quickly recognised as Mr. Fouzi Soltani (55), an Algerian previously noted by Phaya Thai police in 2024 for theft, giving him a criminal history in Thailand.
Arrests at Siam BTS on New Year’s Eve
On 31 December, New Year’s Eve, a police team moved in after spotting the suspects at Siam BTS Station, one of Bangkok’s busiest transit hubs. Coordinating with BTS security chief Thira Sirisukha, officers stopped and searched the men, identified as Fouzi Soltani and his alleged accomplice Mr. Hamid Dif (58). Police said they found five baseball caps in the suspects’ luggage, possibly intended for disguise or rapid changes of appearance.
Visa overstay and immigration charges
Document checks revealed that Mr. Fouzi’s permission to stay had expired on 19 June 2024. According to authorities, he had been in Thailand illegally for 501 days, while his compatriot Mr. Hamid was unable to produce any passport at all. Both men were immediately charged with immigration offences, including illegal stay and unauthorised entry.
Authorities promise continued patrols
The detained suspects were taken to Pathum Wan Police Station, while investigations into the alleged thefts continued under Thong Lor police.
“Our measures in tourist zones and on public transport will be continued in order to prevent such crimes.”
said the authorities.
Officials stated that Thailand aimed to remain a safe travel destination during the festive season and beyond, and that foreign offenders would be systematically pursued and deported.