Picture courtesy of SiamChon.

 

Pattaya police have arrested a 28-year-old Cambodian man just hours after he snatched a handbag from a Russian tourist using a screwdriver as a weapon.

 

The robbery took place around 20:05 on 28 July in Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 14, a dimly lit alley in central Pattaya. The female tourist reported that a motorcyclist had pulled alongside her, threatened her with a screwdriver and grabbed her handbag before fleeing the scene. The bag contained personal items and cash.

 

Following the report, Pattaya City Police launched an immediate investigation, collecting CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts to trace the suspect. At around 16:30 on 29 July, investigators located the suspect, identified as Mr. Chhit Chan, in Soi Sukhumvit 71, Bang Lamung district. He was apprehended with the stolen handbag in his possession.

 

Mr. Chan confessed to the crime during interrogation, explaining that he had been unemployed and desperate. “I lost my job and couldn’t send money to my wife and child. I tried applying everywhere, but no one would hire me because I’m Cambodian, especially with the ongoing border tensions,” he said. “I was at a dead end. I borrowed a motorbike from a friend and rode around looking for a victim. When I saw the Russian tourist walking alone in a quiet street, I seized the opportunity.”

 

When officers arrived at his location, Mr. Chan attempted to flee but was quickly surrounded and apprehended. In addition to the stolen bag, police recovered the clothes worn during the robbery, a screwdriver used in the attack and the motorbike used to carry out the crime.

 

The victim praised the swift response and professionalism of the Pattaya police, noting her belongings were returned quickly. Despite the incident, she expressed confidence in Pattaya’s safety and said she would be happy to return in the future.

 

Mr. Chan is now in police custody at Pattaya City Police Station. He has been formally charged with robbery and is set to face legal proceedings.

 

Related article:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1368104-russian-tourist-robbed-by-motorcycle-thief-in-pattaya/

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-07-30

 

 

 

 

 

 

Well done, some time in the cell and then toss him over the fence!

Well done.  Culprit caught in under 24 hours.  No wonder the cop has allowed himself a sneer of satisfaction.

Cambodian suspects no longer get blurred faces?