Pattaya, Thailand– A popular Thai influencer has publicly apologized to the people of Pattaya after admitting that a viral video depicting a staged gold necklace snatching was fabricated for content creation, leading to widespread criticism over tourism safety concerns.
The controversy erupted when the Facebook page “Je Moya V+” posted images and a video of influencer Prachya Hirirat, known as “Kong,” and their friend Petch Kamutmas at Central Pattaya Beach. The post dramatically described an alleged robbery: “Oh no! Kong got hit! After hanging out with Petch, their necklace was yanked off in Pattaya. They rushed to file a police report. It happened right in front of Central Pattaya Beach. Petch said a man in a black shirt, about 170 cm tall wearing an English-printed tee, approached and snatched Kong’s gold necklace. They couldn’t see him clearly. Petch and Kong hurried to report it to track down the culprit. Petch was shaking and told fans: ‘Anyone know the nearest police station? If you saw this guy selling the gold, tip us off. Petch is ready to fight!’ Kong often wears gold jewelry—necklaces, bracelets, it’s her style. With gold prices high, everyone beware; it might not just be the gold you lose. #HasClip.”
The post garnered thousands of comments, with some users slamming Pattaya’s safety for tourists and others suspecting it was a promotional stunt for a business. Local Pattaya residents voiced strong disapproval, arguing that such content—if fake—damages the city’s reputation by fueling fears of crime.
On October 14th at 4:30 p.m., Prachya Hirirat, 30, accompanied by Petch Kamutmas, 45, turned themselves in at Pattaya City Police Station to meet with Deputy Investigation Chief Pol. Lt. Col. Kosala Namphong. During the questioning, Prachya raised their hands in a traditional Thai wai gesture of apology to Pattaya locals.
“I sincerely apologize to the people of Pattaya,” Prachya stated. “The incident was just us filming content without bad intentions. We were drinking, got a bit drunk, and shot casual, funny videos like we always do when traveling—humorous skits for laughs. I never thought it would blow up and harm the area’s image, creating this drama. I’m truly sorry. And no, the property wasn’t actually stolen; everything is intact.”
Pol. Lt. Col. Kosala confirmed that initial statements were taken from both but despite the apology police will proceed with filing charges and follow legal procedures as required.
The case shows growing scrutiny over influencers staging dramatic scenarios for social media engagement, especially in tourist hotspots like Pattaya. Pattaya police urge content creators to prioritize truthfulness to avoid misleading the public and eroding trust in local safety.
