A Chinese holidaymaker caused a commotion at a hotel in Pattaya, Thailand, when he was reportedly robbed by a transgender sex worker. The man was seen on hotel CCTV footage sprinting naked down a corridor just ten minutes after inviting the woman to his room.
The tourist informed hotel staff that he had been attacked by two women who stole 10,000 baht (approximately £238.66) and an iPhone 15 Pro Max from his room. One of the suspects, identified as Atikhun Mueangmungkhun, was later apprehended by the police in a room she shared with four other women. At first, Atikhun denied any involvement but confessed after incriminating security footage was presented. She was charged with robbery and arrested on February 26.
Police Captain Assada Jarusombat stated that evidence from security cameras and the stolen phone led to Atikhun’s arrest. The suspect surrendered due to the incriminating evidence against her and was handed over to the authorities along with the seized items for further legal action.
This incident occurred amidst a series of violent attacks on tourists in Pattaya, known as Sin City. Recent incidents included a cross dresser stealing money from a Korean tourist and assaulting another tourist. The city has also seen cases of tourists being beaten and robbed by sex workers in separate incidents. Street altercations involving tourists and transgender women have been reported, particularly along Beach Road, a popular area for sex workers.
Despite efforts by law enforcement to curb such incidents, the persistent presence of sex workers and the challenges faced by the police in addressing the issue continue to pose a problem in Pattaya. The city, once a thriving tourist destination known for its nightlife and entertainment, is now facing scrutiny for tarnishing Thailand’s reputation as a family-friendly holiday spot with its association with illicit activities.