Man Posing as Police Officer Arrested in Pattaya After Robbing Tourists, Chasing Witness with Scissors
Pattaya, April 14, 2025 – A Thai man was arrested after impersonating a police officer and stealing from foreign tourists on Pattaya Beach. The suspect, believed to be under the influence of drugs, threatened a witness with scissors before being tracked down and apprehended by police.
The incident occurred on April 13, when the man was seen rummaging through tourists’ bags along the beach. A local woman, who recognized the suspect from previous similar incidents and knew he wasn’t a real officer, shouted at him to stop. The man reacted violently, grabbing a pair of scissors and attempting to stab her.
Several brave tourists intervened, halting the attack and prompting the man to flee the scene. The confrontation was captured on video and quickly went viral on social media, drawing public attention and prompting a swift response from the Pattaya City Police.
Led by Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyoo, Chief of Pattaya City Police Station, and senior officers Pol. Lt. Col. Arun Saphanont, Pol. Lt. Col. Suradet Imjai, and Pol. Lt. Col. Thanes Saengiran, the police tracked the suspect to a nearby location on April 14. He was found holding a stick, behaving aggressively, and displaying signs of drug intoxication.
Police subdued and arrested him without further incident. During questioning, the suspect confessed to impersonating a police officer to steal from and intimidate tourists. A drug test later confirmed he had used illegal narcotics, although the specific substance was not disclosed.
The suspect faces multiple charges, including impersonating a law enforcement officer, theft, assault, and possession and use of Category 1 narcotics.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have been targeted or harassed by this individual to file a report at Pattaya City Police Station. Victims and witnesses can also report suspicious activity through:
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Pattaya City Police Station Facebook Page
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Hotline: 082-7999-111
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Emergency: 191 (available 24/7)
Police continue to reinforce safety measures in tourist areas, especially during the Songkran holiday, to ensure a secure environment for both locals and visitors.
