CHIANG MAI – A Turkish-German tourist missing for days was picked up safe and sound by police in Chiang Mai on Saturday. The 32-year-old Ali Karakoyunlu said he deliberately cut himself off from family and friends for a nine-day digital break.
Police already had a missing person report. They spotted Ali on August 2 on Ratchaphakinai Road in the Sri Phum district. When officers approached him, he confirmed his identity right away.
Tourist checked in, planned month in Chiang Mai
Ali said he checked into the TJ Guesthouse and Restaurant on July 22. He had planned a full month in Chiang Mai before continuing his trip to the Philippines.
He told police he ignored all messages and calls on purpose. During his holiday he wanted a break from social media and any digital communication.
said a police report.
Family feared theft and violent crime
His sister and ex-girlfriend Suppanat Essie noticed his phone kept switching on and off. Because it was never properly reachable, they suspected it had been stolen.
Worry grew when news broke about two missing Russian siblings later found murdered in Chon Buri. The family imagined Ali might have fallen victim to a crime.
Ex-girlfriend alerted tourist police and rescue group
Suppanat eventually reported the disappearance to the Chiang Mai Tourist Police and the Mirror Foundation. Officers first found no trace of a hospital stay or hotel booking in the city.
The family was preparing to contact the Turkish embassy. Before they could, police tracked the man down in the old city.
Apology on Facebook, travel plans unchanged
On police advice, Ali called his relatives immediately. The family thanked the Thai authorities. Soon after, he posted on Facebook himself: he was safe, and sorry for causing so much worry.
His plans are unchanged. After a month in Chiang Mai he still intends to travel on to the Philippines as planned.
said the police report.