Thief Arrested After Snatching Handbag from Australian Tourist in Patong

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Police have arrested a 42-year-old Thai man following the snatch theft of a handbag belonging to an Australian female tourist in Patong, Phuket. The suspect was captured after a swift investigation by local police in collaboration with the Tourist Police.

 

The incident occurred at approximately 08:45  on 14 April, when the victim reported to Patong Police Station that her shoulder bag had been snatched while she was walking along the beachfront road in Patong. The bag contained AU$300 in cash, a mobile phone, and other personal belongings.

 

 

Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hoernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police, immediately ordered an investigation team to pursue the suspect. Under the directive of Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, Tourist Police Division 3, led by Pol. Col. Narapol Watthanakornthawee and Pol. Lt. Col. Ekachai Siri, collaborated with Patong officers to investigate the case.

 

The joint task force reviewed CCTV footage and traced the suspect’s escape route towards Mueang District, Phuket. After an extensive manhunt, the suspect was located and apprehended. During the arrest, police recovered AU$200 and the stolen mobile phone, both confirmed to belong to the victim. The man confessed to the crime.

 

He was charged and was handed over to Patong Police investigators for further legal proceedings.

 

Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining tourist safety and reaffirmed that swift action would continue to be taken against any crimes affecting visitors to Thailand.

 

-- 2025-04-15