Crime Malaysian Man Arrested for Robbing Chinese Influencer in Chiang Mai

[snoop1130]

Photo via Chiang Mai News

 

A 34-year-old Malaysian national is facing serious legal trouble after allegedly robbing a Chinese influencer and university student in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The incident, which took place on May 25, involved the theft of 135,000 baht and was motivated by the suspect's need for holiday funds.

 

The suspect, Eng Chee Hon, was arrested on May 27 following an investigation by officers from the Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station. At a press conference, authorities revealed how Eng lured his victim, 28-year-old Tan Liaing, into a trap involving cryptocurrency exchange.

 

Tan, a social media influencer and university student from China, had previously exchanged cryptocurrency with Eng. On the day of the crime, Eng arranged to meet Tan in the car park of a luxury condominium on Tha Phae Road, enticing him with an appealing exchange rate. However, instead of completing the transaction, Eng threatened Tan with a knife, stole the cash, and fled on a motorcycle.

 

Police swiftly acted by reviewing CCTV footage from the area, which led them to track Eng to his residence in the San Sai district. Upon his arrest, authorities recovered 101,160 baht of the stolen cash from Eng’s condo.

 

Further investigation revealed Eng’s background as an eyewear vendor in Malaysia, along with his involvement in cryptocurrency trading. Described as a professional gambler, Eng allegedly used gambling winnings to fund much of his stay in Chiang Mai. He admitted to robbing Tan to finance his travels around Thailand after being invited to Chiang Mai by a Vietnamese friend. He had also entered a relationship with a Burmese woman during his visit.

 

Complications in Eng’s legal situation were compounded by his expired tourist visa at the time of arrest. Eng now faces two significant charges:

 

1. Section 339 of the Criminal Law: Accusation of robbery using or threatening violence, a crime that carries a penalty of five to ten years’ imprisonment and a fine between 100,000 to 200,000 baht.
2. Section 81 of the Immigration Act: Overstay of a visa, with penalties including up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine up to 20,000 baht, or both.

 

This case not only highlights the challenges and risks faced by individuals in currency exchange dealings but also underscores the vigilant efforts of local law enforcement in handling such incidents. As Eng awaits his legal proceedings, his actions serve as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of criminal behavior whilst abroad.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-28

 

 

[BritManToo]

So they didn't arrest the Chinese guy for money laundering?

I thought cash exchanges in car parks was exclusively for criminal activities.

[swerve]

More Thai trouble involving a Chinese victim.  This news gets back to China and creates a bad impression that ultimately affects  Chinese tourist numbers.  Wonder how hard the Thais will go on this Malay.

[falangUK]

Isn't Eng Chee Hon the Chinese then? 😕