A Korean tourist fell victim to a pickpocketing incident on a shared songthaew (two-row passenger truck) in Pattaya late on January 19th, 2026, prompting police to launch an investigation to safeguard the resort city’s reputation.
The theft occurred around 11:36 p.m. when the victim, identified only as Mr. Hong, a South Korean national, was traveling with his Myanmar female companion on a route along South Pattaya Road heading toward Soi Bongkot.
According to the complaint filed at Pattaya City Police Station, Mr. Hong reported to Pol. Lt. Col. Kanoknan Suksri, an investigating officer, that while seated on the songthaew, a transgender woman boarded and sat closely beside him. She was accompanied by another Thai woman, and the pair appeared to operate as a coordinated team.
Taking advantage of a moment when the victim was distracted, one of the suspects allegedly reached into his pocket and stole several items: A Samsung mobile phone, 4,000 baht in cash, and two credit cards. Mr. Hong only realized the theft after disembarking from the vehicle.
Police accepted the report and directed the investigation team to expedite inquiries. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage along the route and actively tracking the suspects to bring them to justice under the full force of the law.
Authorities added that such incidents must be addressed decisively to prevent any negative impact on tourist confidence and Pattaya’s image as a welcoming destination for international visitors. The case remains under active investigation.
