PATTAYA, Thailand – Immigration officials in Chonburi have apprehended a Pakistani national accused of luring unsuspecting tourists into an herbal product scam. The 37-year-old, identified as Muhammad Ibrahim, allegedly targeted overweight and balding visitors, directing them to a shop at the Runway Market. Police believe the operation significantly tarnishes the city’s tourism image.
Lockvogel mit 1.600 Baht Provision
According to authorities, Muhammad Ibrahim received a substantial 20 percent commission, amounting to 1,600 Baht, for every customer he brought to the herbal shop. He reportedly approached tourists openly, commenting on their appearance and promising exaggerated results such as “hair growth, belly reduction.”
Two Thai women are believed to have operated the shop and sold the products. They initially denied the accusations but later admitted their involvement when presented with evidence by officials.
Gezieltes Ansprechen von Übergewicht und Glatze
The suspects reportedly approached victims in public, directly addressing perceived problem areas. Individuals with a few extra pounds or noticeable bald spots were unsolicitedly offered “miracle herbal” solutions.
The lure was consistent: the prospect of fuller hair and a slimmer waistline. Many tourists naively followed the offers into the shop located at the bustling Pattaya Second Road’s Runway Market.
Sechs Komplizen bereits hinter Gittern
Earlier, on June 19, 2569, the Chonburi immigration bureau had already arrested six Pakistani suspects from the same network. Despite this raid, the group reportedly continued their scheme, opening a new shop shortly thereafter.
Law enforcement then deployed undercover investigators and maintained continuous surveillance. Officers observed foreign tourists continuing to be approached based on their physical appearance.
Immigrationsbehörden fürchten Image-Schaden
Authorities view this brazen scam as more than a simple fraud case. The police stated that such actions severely damage the tourism image of the entire resort city.
Consequently, the enforcement of immigration and employment regulations in and around Pattaya is currently operating at full capacity. The objective is to prevent such networks from expanding further.
Verdächtiger an Polizeistation übergeben
Following his arrest, Muhammad Ibrahim was initially taken to the Pattaya immigration office and later transferred to the Pattaya City Police Station. The Pakistani national was reportedly on a 90-day visa and employed by a company in Bangkok.
Investigations into the compliance with immigration and employment regulations are ongoing. Police are continuing surveillance and investigative measures to examine potential links to other networks.