A family of Israeli tourists has been accused of shoplifting at a convenience store in Phuket after staff allegedly caught adults encouraging children to conceal snack items and leave without paying.
Get today's headlines by email 
According to store employees, the incident involved a mother handing a packet of sweets to her son and instructing him to hide it inside a bag before quickly walking out of the shop. Staff later claimed the grandmother repeated the act by giving another packet of snacks to her granddaughter while shielding the child as she quietly exited the store.
Employees said they noticed the alleged theft and confronted the family outside the shop. However, staff claimed the tourists refused to return the items when challenged. The situation reportedly escalated when workers warned they would contact police. According to witnesses, members of the family responded in English with the phrase: “I don’t care.”
The allegation comes amid increased scrutiny of foreign tourists in Phuket following several recent incidents involving visitors on the island. Thai authorities have recently signalled tougher enforcement measures against foreigners accused of breaking local laws or causing public disturbances.
The case has drawn attention online after accounts of the confrontation circulated on social media in Thai, English and Russian-language posts. Reactions have focused on the accusation that adults encouraged children to participate in the alleged theft.
Legal experts note that shoplifting offences in Thailand can result in criminal charges if complaints are formally lodged with police. Businesses may also provide CCTV footage or witness statements as evidence during investigations.
Authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the alleged incident. It remains unclear whether the store intends to pursue legal action or whether compensation for the missing items was later offered. Phuket officials have repeatedly urged foreign visitors to respect Thai laws and local customs as tourism numbers continue to recover.
Video courtesy of Phuketinsta
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Phuketinsta 8 May 2026
-
1
-
1