PATTAYA, Thailand – Three men posed as police, kidnapped three massage workers, and demanded cash for their release.
The fake cops struck at a massage salon on August 2. They claimed to be from a police investigation unit, searched for drugs, then targeted three employees.
Victims forced to use crystal meth
The impostors took the three workers by motorcycle to a room on the third floor of a building in Soi Jomtien 12. There, they forced the victims to consume crystal meth, known on the street as ice.
The goal was maximum control and intimidation. The men threatened to plant evidence unless the victims agreed to work as informants.
Demand shifted from informants to cash
At first, the fake cops wanted the victims to target foreigners as informants. But the plan quickly changed.
The suspects demanded money directly for the release of the kidnapped workers. The exact sum and whether any payment was made remain unknown. The victims reported the crime to real police.
Police raid but suspects slip away
Officers from Pattaya City Police stormed the so-called safe house in Soi Jomtien 12. They found an empty room. The suspects had already left the day-rental room.
The raid came after an urgent probe ordered by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyu. The hunt is led by Lieutenant Colonel Arut Sapanon and Lieutenant Colonel Suradet Imjai.
On August 3, the Pattaya Provincial Court issued arrest warrants for three Thai men: Chalermchot Chatmani (30), also known as Chot, Anan Panyapho (45) alias Tawin, and Kiatthisak Khuna (40) alias Ice.
The charges are joint extortion, false imprisonment, and coercion by threat of violence against life, body, or property.
Police warn public about impersonators
Pattaya City Police stressed that no real police officers were involved in the crime. They urged citizens to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a cop and, if in doubt, contact a police station directly.
Investigators said they are hunting the three men at full speed and will release more information on the case.