Police Arrest Suspect in Pattaya Beachfront Theft Targeting Russian Tourist

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture captured from CCTV.

 

A Russian tourist who had his belongings stolen while swimming at a Pattaya resort has expressed gratitude to Thai police after they successfully tracked down and arrested the suspect.

 

The incident occurred on 3 February at Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, located in Na Jomtien, Sattahip district, Chonburi. The victim, Mr Igor Lysenko, had left his belongings, including a Google Pixel 8 smartphone, a driving licence, two credit cards, and a hotel key card, on a table by the beach while he went for a swim. Upon returning, he discovered that his possessions had been stolen.

 

Following the theft, police launched an investigation led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Arut Saphanon, Deputy Superintendent of Investigations at Na Jomtien Police Station. Officers reviewed CCTV footage from the scene and interviewed witnesses, eventually identifying the suspect’s vehicle, a white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck with the registration from Bangkok.

 

The suspect, identified as Mr Thitiphan Karaneeramarangkul, a 40-year-old resident of Samut Prakan province, was found hiding in Huai Yai, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. Officers on 7 February, planned and executed a successful arrest operation, seizing the pickup truck used in the crime. Additionally, they discovered a quantity of methamphetamine (yaba) and crystal meth in his possession.

 

Mr Thitiphan was taken into custody at Na Jomtien Police Station, where he now faces multiple charges, including theft and drug-related offences.

 

Following the arrest, Mr Lysenko personally visited the police station to thank the investigation team for their swift action. He praised their efforts in ensuring justice and reaffirming safety for foreign tourists visiting the area.

 

 

-- 2025-02-08