How gang targets tourists in Pattaya

[reader]

From Pattaya Mail

In the early hours of April 19, Pattaya’s tourist police officers swiftly intervened and arrested Sumaree Keemalae, a 59-year-old woman, in the vicinity of Walking Street, following a targeted theft aimed at a foreign tourist during the Songkran festivities.

The incident unfolded as a Chinese tourist couple immersed themselves in the celebration along Walking Street. Sensing a disturbance with his backpack, initially dismissed as mere suspicion, the tourist soon discovered evidence of tampering. Upon closer inspection, he found his backpack slashed and valuables missing. Reacting quickly, the man managed to grab Sumaree, whom he suspected of perpetrating the theft, and handed her over to nearby tourist police authorities.

During interrogation, Sumaree admitted to her involvement in the crime and divulged insights into the pickpocketing operation. She disclosed her role as part of a four-person group systematically targeting unsuspecting tourists during crowded events. Each member had assigned tasks, with one distracting the victim while another executed the theft. However, Sumaree’s capture by the tourist thwarted the operation, leading to her arrest. Further investigations revealed Sumaree’s extensive criminal record, with seven prior cases linked to theft.

Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Ensan, chief of the Pattaya Tourist Police, voiced concerns for the safety of tourists in Pattaya and urged visitors to remain vigilant, especially regarding their belongings. Emphasizing the importance of proactive reporting, he encouraged tourists to promptly alert law enforcement to any suspicious activities. Additionally, security cameras strategically placed in the area captured clear footage of the incident, providing vital evidence for the ongoing investigation.

[vinapu]

brazen act with so many people around

[Marc in Calif]

7 hours ago, vinapu said:

brazen act with so many people around

And naive tourists  carrying backpacks 

[vinapu]

36 minutes ago, Marc in Calif said:

And naive tourists  carrying backpacks 

+1,  although it's not backpacks , it's what they carry in them

[reader]

From Pattaya News

Many Tourists Report Belongings Stolen on Pattaya Beach

On April 19th, 2024, Pattaya local media reported that many Thai and foreign tourists filed police reports after their belongings were stolen during Wan Lai Pattaya 2024 on Pattaya Beach, Pattaya.

According to the police reports, at least 20 individuals both Thais and foreigners reportedly filed reports to Pattaya City police officers to request for them to help track down suspects who allegedly stole their belongings during Wan Lai Pattaya.

The victims lost their cash, smartphones, credit cards, and important documentation. Many also complained about the security measures set up for tourists despite police officers in uniforms and undercover being tasked to monitor the security of the tourists, according to the police reports.

In many of the cases, pickpockets and thieves had cut strings on tourist’s protective water pouches and even cut into the bags themselves, taking the belongings of the unsuspecting victims who were usually distracted by a different suspect working with the thieves.
The victim group pleaded with the police to find the suspects swiftly to prosecute legal action against the thieves as not only did it negatively impact Pattaya City and national tourism images, but many foreigners also lost their important documentation.

Pattaya police, meanwhile, promised to review the cases but also stated that protecting one’s valuables starts with oneself and that tourists should properly secure their belongings, not flash large amounts of jewelry or cash, and be cautious of strangers that approach, hug, or touch them.

Pickpockets working in large crowds during major festivals have been a major problem for many years, notes TPN media, and police have continually warned tourists to keep a close eye on their belongings.

 

[vinapu]

16 hours ago, reader said:

also stated that protecting one’s valuables starts with oneself and that tourists should properly secure their belongings, not flash large amounts of jewelry or cash,

 

can't be said better, quite often I see people buying something trivial and pulling wad of notes for all to see to pull 50 or 100 out of it instead of using old vinapu advice of keeping small denominations separate from big ones. Why somebody strolling along Beach ( or is it Bitch ? ) Rd needs to carry wallet  with 12 credit cards  like safety deposit box was never invented ? 

[floridarob]

21 minutes ago, vinapu said:

using old vinapu advice of keeping small denominations separate from big ones.

and pockets....lots of pockets.

[vinapu]

12 minutes ago, floridarob said:

and pockets....lots of pockets.

that's obvious, it easier for thief  to empty sole pocket or one of just two than 10 undersigned  has at disposal when travels