PATTAYA, THAILAND – A Chinese tourist’s report of missing cash after a late-night meeting with two women in his hotel room led to a police investigation and sharply conflicting accounts.
Tourist reported missing 20,000 baht
Police said a 43-year-old Chinese visitor contacted officers in the early hours of 30 December to report the loss of about 20,000 baht. He stated that he had placed the money on the table in his resort room while drinking with two women he had recently met.
According to his statement, the cash disappeared after the women left the room. Shortly afterward, he reportedly saw the pair on the beach, held one of them, and called the police.
Teenage suspect firmly denied theft
The detained woman, identified as 16-year-old Phanurat Akhana, rejected the allegation during questioning. She told investigators she had met the tourist earlier and arranged to drink with him together with a friend.
She said they had agreed on a “treuegeld” of 4,000 baht per person.
“We later went out to get something to eat. Then he ran after me, pulled my hair and accused me,”
said Phanurat, according to the police report.
Disputed deal and search for missing cash
The young woman insisted she had not taken the money and said she had even wanted to help look for it when the confrontation began. Under pressure at the scene, she reportedly agreed to compensation but asked for time to gather evidence for her innocence.
Police continued to hold Phanurat while searching for the second woman, whom investigators believed may have taken the missing cash.
Officers faced with opposing versions
Authorities described the case as challenging, with two completely opposing versions of what happened in Pattaya that night. On one side stood the tourist, who reported a clear theft; on the other, the detained teenager, who spoke of an agreed payment and an unfounded accusation.
Investigators focused on identifying witnesses, reviewing possible surveillance footage and tracking down the missing companion.
Nightlife risks and police warning to visitors
The incident again highlighted concerns about the darker side of Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife and recurring disputes between tourists and locals. Police urged holidaymakers to remain vigilant and keep valuables secure.
Officers also warned visitors not to enter into opaque arrangements or deals. The truth in this case was expected to be decided in court, and many questions remained unanswered.