PATTAYA, THAILAND – A German tourist who was robbed in his hotel room and later assaulted on the beach praised Pattaya police after officers arrested four suspects within hours.
Hotel room theft after late-night encounter
In the early hours of 24 February 2026, the 55-year-old tourist, identified as Mr Markus, filed a report at the Pattaya City Police Station. He told officers he had brought two Thai transgender persons to his room in a condominium building on Second Road, initially unaware that they were transgender women. When he realised this, an argument broke out and the agreed service did not take place.
Cash stolen while victim was in bathroom
While Mr Markus and 24-year-old Phimmada Thanari were in the bathroom, 22-year-old Kewalin Sukmuang allegedly seized the opportunity to steal cash from an envelope in the room. A total of 35,000 Thai baht and 1,200 euros was taken. Both later admitted dividing the money, with Kewalin keeping 15,000 baht and Phimmada 18,500 baht.
Confrontation and assault on Pattaya Beach
After noticing the theft, the tourist rushed downstairs and encountered Phimmada near Pattaya Beach at around 12:45 a.m. When he tried to detain her and call police, she called for help. Three alleged accomplices, including 26-year-old Mawin Phlapphleng and 21-year-old Worawit Phosawang, then attacked and injured the tourist.
Four suspects arrested, two still at large
Later the same day, at around 4:00 p.m., officers led by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyu managed to arrest four of the suspects. Two additional accomplices remained on the run. The detained individuals were presented with multiple charges related to the incident.
Charges and apology after arrest
Phimmada, Mawin and Worawit faced charges of jointly committing bodily harm, while Phimmada and Kewalin were additionally charged with jointly committing night-time theft in a residence. After their arrest, Phimmada and Kewalin apologised with the traditional wai gesture and stated they had acted out of greed when they saw the large sum of money.
“We acted out of greed when we saw the large amount of money.”
said Phimmada and Kewalin, suspects.
Victim praises Pattaya police and plans return
The tourist expressed strong appreciation for the rapid work of the officers.
“I praise the police for their quick and efficient work.”
said Mr Markus, German tourist. He announced that he planned to return to Pattaya in December, bringing gifts for the officers as a sign of his gratitude.
“I will come back in December with presents for the officers to show my gratitude.”
said Mr Markus, German tourist.