PATTAYA, THAILAND – A South Korean tourist was robbed in a shared songthaew in the resort city, prompting a police investigation and concern over visitor security.
Robbery reported shortly before midnight
According to Pattaya City Police, the incident was reported on 19 January at about 11:35 p.m. at the main station. Officers recorded a formal complaint and immediately began securing evidence.
The tourist, identified in official documents as Mr Hong, arrived at the station accompanied by the Myanmar national Ms Kham, who helped him report the theft. Police stated he had been travelling in a cooperative songthaew from Pattaya South Road towards Soi Bongkot when the robbery occurred.
Witness describes suspected group operation
Based on Ms Kham’s statement, a Ladyboy was seated next to the tourist, while a Thai woman was also in the vehicle and might have belonged to the same group. She told officers the suspects appeared to act in a coordinated manner and used a moment of distraction to remove valuables from the man without him noticing.
Police said a Samsung mobile phone, 4,000 baht in cash and two credit cards were stolen. Mr Hong reportedly only realised the loss after he had left the vehicle.
Suspects flee as police turn to CCTV
After discovering the theft, the tourist asked for assistance, and Ms Kham offered to accompany him to the Pattaya City Police Station. There, officers took statements from both individuals and documented the details of the stolen items.
No injuries were reported, and the alleged perpetrators had already fled by the time the theft came to light. Investigators coordinated with the investigation division and ordered CCTV footage to be reviewed along the route the songthaew had taken.
Video analysis aimed at tracking route and suspects
Cameras on streets and in areas frequently used by songthaews were expected to help identify the suspects and trace their movements. The police said they were working to locate and arrest those involved once video analysis was completed and additional witness testimony gathered.
“The case could undermine confidence among tourists who use public transport in the resort.”
said local police, according to the report.
Police issue safety advice for visitors
At the same time, officers issued clear guidance, urging visitors to take special care of their valuables when using shared transport. They recommended that phones and wallets be carried close to the body and that bags be kept closed and in view at all times.
“Tourists should remain vigilant, especially on heavily used songthaew routes in the city.”
said police officers, adding that attention to one’s surroundings inside vehicles was essential.