American Man Caught Stealing Shoes at Chiang Mai Shop

A man from the United States, who was not named by authorities, was caught attempting to steal second-hand clothing and footwear from a shop near a market area in Chiang Mai on 12 March 2026. The incident occurred around 11.00am near the Rim Ping shopping area in Wat Ket Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Police were alerted after the shop owner reported that the man tried to leave without paying.

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According to the Provincial Police Region 5 radio centre (191), officers from tourist police, immigration police and patrol units from Mae Ping Police Station were dispatched to the scene. They found the shop owner and the American man along with items believed to have been taken from the store. The goods included a pair of second-hand shoes and a pair of trousers.

The shop owner told police the man arrived on a rented motorcycle and stopped in front of the second-hand clothing and footwear shop. While browsing items in the store, the man allegedly removed his own worn shoes and replaced them with a pair of shoes displayed for sale on the shop shelf. He then left his old shoes behind and attempted to walk away wearing the shop’s footwear.

At the same time, the man was also seen picking up a pair of second-hand trousers as he was moving toward the exit. A staff member noticed the behaviour and alerted the shop owner before the man could leave the premises. The tourist initially denied stealing anything and claimed he intended to purchase the trousers.

However, when confronted with footage from the shop’s CCTV system showing him switching the shoes and attempting to leave without paying, the man admitted what had happened. He then asked to return to his accommodation to collect cash in order to pay for the items.

Immigration officers escorted the tourist to retrieve the money, after which he paid the shop a total of 2,000 baht for the goods. The shop owner decided not to pursue legal action after receiving compensation for the items. Instead, the owner asked the man not to repeat such behaviour.

Authorities confirmed that the matter was resolved after the payment was made and the goods were accounted for. No further legal action was taken. Khaosod reported that police reminded residents and visitors to respect local laws and businesses while living and travelling in Thailand.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 13 Mar 2026