Pattaya police hunt suspect in tourist cash theft

Pattaya police are examining CCTV footage to identify a man suspected of stealing approximately 70,000 baht in foreign cash from a Turkish tourist at a shopping centre in South Pattaya.

The alleged theft took place late at the mall. Investigators at Pattaya City Police Station are also checking whether the suspect had accomplices or may be linked to similar offences.

The victim, 31-year-old Turkish tourist Hanife Hilal GOK, told police that a man approached her and began a conversation before asking to see her cash. After showing her money, she later found that 1,000 euros and US$900 were missing.

CCTV shows man matching suspect description

Police reviewing cameras inside and around the shopping centre found footage of a man in the area at about the time of the alleged crime.

He was described as a foreign national, tall and of average build, fair-skinned and sporting a beard. He was wearing a black-and-white patterned cap, a black T-shirt, black shorts, a black cross-body bag and black trainers.

Investigators are now tracing his movements and gathering further evidence. They are examining whether he acted alone, as well as any possible connections to cases involving similar methods.

Pattaya City Police have contacted relevant agencies, including Immigration, to check travel information that could help establish the suspect's identity. Officers are also checking hotels and accommodation near the shopping centre.

Practical warning for visitors and residents

The case highlights a risk for tourists and foreign residents carrying several currencies in busy public places. Police said offences of this kind can rely on building trust and distracting a victim before cash is taken.

Visitors should avoid displaying large amounts of cash or handing money to strangers who ask to inspect it. Where possible, travellers may wish to keep currencies separated and use hotel safes or other secure storage rather than carrying all their spending money at once.

Anyone who saw the man described by police, or has information that could assist the investigation, is asked to contact Pattaya City Police Station. Businesses in the area with relevant CCTV footage may also be able to help officers establish the suspect's route.Police have not said whether a suspect has been identified or arrested.

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16 July 2026