PATTAYA, THAILAND – Two local influencers admitted they had staged a viral video showing an apparent gold-chain robbery on Central Pattaya Beach, a stunt that drew public anger and prompted police to press charges.
Viral clip presented as real attack
The footage was posted on the Facebook page “Je Moya V+” and quickly circulated online. It showed influencer Prachya Hirirat, 30, known as “Kong,” and his friend Petch Kamutmas, 45, reacting in shock after a man in a black T-shirt allegedly grabbed Kong’s gold chain and fled. The post warned viewers to be careful because of high gold prices and implied a real threat to tourists and residents.
Public reaction and tourism concerns
Responses were split. Some viewers accepted the scene as a genuine theft and criticised safety in Pattaya, while others suspected the clip was staged or promotional. Local residents and officials expressed anger, saying the stunt risked harming Pattaya’s reputation as a safe tourist destination. The city has repeatedly tried to counter perceptions of crime, and residents feared the video could undo that progress.
Confession at police station
On October 14 at 16:30, Kong and Petch went to the Pattaya City Police Station and confessed to staging the incident. They performed the traditional wai gesture and apologised. Kong said, “I sincerely apologise to the people of Pattaya. The incident was just content without bad intent. We had been drinking, were a bit drunk, and we often film funny sketches while travelling.” He also acknowledged that the gold chain had never been stolen.
Police response
Police showed little leniency. Deputy investigation chief Police Lieutenant Kosala Namphong confirmed authorities would file a formal complaint and begin the legally required process. He said officials would pursue the matter despite the influencers’ public apology.
Consequences for the creators
The incident illustrated a growing problem with social-media stunts designed to attract clicks and followers. Beyond possible criminal charges, Kong and Petch faced the prospect of losing advertising partners and their credibility with followers. Pattaya police warned content creators about the responsibility that comes with public influence, saying truthfulness must be prioritised to protect public trust in local safety.
Wider implications for tourism and regulation
Authorities and residents argued the case underlined the wider impact of fabricated online content on tourism-dependent cities. Misleading or sensational posts can quickly shape perceptions of safety and deter visitors. The police urged influencers to consider the broader consequences of staged incidents and said they would take action to deter similar acts in the future.