Bag and Gold Chai Snatchings on the Increase in Pattaya

[Gaybutton]

The local news media is reporting several stories about the rise in the number and frequency of these crimes, along with more stories about pickpocket teams that plague baht buses.

 

Regarding the gold chains, to me it defies logic as to why anybody would want to wear them here with so many thieves out there ready to try to snatch them. Some of them stop at nothing to make a grab.

 

On the baht buses, be especially alert for anything suspicious and keep your money and wallet where the pickpockets can't get at them. The usual M.O. is for the pickpockets to work in teams. One or two of them will do something to distract you while another uses the opportunity to pickpocket you. If you have any reason to be suspicious, then get off the bus and alert the driver. For whatever reason, most of the pickpocket gangs that get caught are usually females, working in groups of three or four.

 

Unfortunately, due to drug use and difficult economic times, more and more people are resorting to crime. Please use common sense precautions to avoid becoming a victim.

[Guest lvdkeyes]

There is one skinny ugly Thai woman about 50 or so who is known to Thais as a pickpocket. She tried unsuccessfully to pick my pocket once. She was with 2-3 others Thais, one of which was an obviously gay toot. Another day she was on a baht bus alone and was about to get off when she saw me and my bf getting on, then she decided to stay on the bus, but couldn't maneuver her way to an advantageous place. Another Thai woman talked to my bf afterward the pickpocket finally gave up and warned him that she was a pickpocket, which we already knew.

 

With a greater economic hard times coming to Thailand, it will only get worse.

[atri1666]

Already more than one year i dont wear rings and chains when i travel to pattaya. When i must take bahtbus i always look for empty ones or with many farang. I carry empty purse and distribute the money in my bags.

[Guest shebavon]

Already more than one year i dont wear rings and chains when i travel to pattaya. When i must take bahtbus i always look for empty ones or with many farang. I carry empty purse and distribute the money in my bags.

Why flaunt riches amongst people so much poorer than you. Leave the family jewels home or in a safe.

 

These are crimes of convenience. Use the same logic you would on a crowded New York City Subway. Watch your wallet.

[Guest laurence]

Why flaunt riches amongst people so much poorer than you. Leave the family jewels home or in a safe.

 

Personally I prefer to carry the family jewels with me in a small sac, out of sight but easy to access when needed.

 

[atri1666]

Leave the family jewels home or in a safe.

 

This i was saying - i let them at home when i travel to pattaya. In 35 years of travelling never had any problems. Using crowded New York City Subway i imagine its better to wear only swimshorts.

 

[Guest Astrrro]

Why wear jewelry anywhere, anytime? Watches are now simply jewelry since most of us carry a mobile with the time.

 

I wear a string around my wrist. It reminds me that simplicity keeps me happy and more stuff doesn't.

 

Stuff brings problems. I'm most addicted to my laptop but I have to take care that it doesn't get stolen.

 

I know just about every man wears jewelry of some sort if you include watches. But jewelry brings me no pleasure whatsoever.

 

And of course, lots of bling makes you are a target.

[Guest laurence]

I have heard that GB has stopped carrying that rhinestone and sequined purse he is known for. Or maybe it was purloined?

[Gaybutton]

I have heard that GB has stopped carrying that rhinestone

Rhinestones? Among my purses? Are you a madman . . . ?