Thai police capture Chinese suspect in airport escape attemptLegacyThai police have detained Hao Yong, a 45 year old Chinese national, at Suvarnabhumi Airport as he attempted to escape to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. He is suspected of orchestrating a crime in South Pattaya, where a victim was abducted after leaving an entertainment venue. Police investigations revealed that Hao Yong admitted to identifying the victim, who was seized after stopping for noodles at a roadside stall. The victim was then forcibly taken by a group including two Chinese nationals and two Thai men in a BYD vehicle. The attackers robbed the victim of valuables worth 230,000 baht (US$7,100) and later abandoned them near a railway. The chief of Pattaya City Police Station, Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo, together with Chon Buri Immigration Police and investigative teams, are intensifying their efforts to locate any additional accomplices who might be hiding in Thailand or nearby countries. A court had already issued an arrest warrant for Hao Yong on several charges. These include armed robbery with a firearm, committed by three or more people at night; illegal possession of a firearm; and carrying a firearm in public without a legitimate reason. Thai police acted quickly to prevent Hao Yong’s escape, capturing him at the airport gate just before he could board his flight, reported The Pattaya News. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News In related news, Pattaya police have arrested four people, two Chinese nationals and two Thai citizens, in connection with the recent abduction and robbery of a Chinese man by suspects posing as police officers. The incident occurred around 5.30am on July 10 outside a noodle shop on North Pattaya Road. The victim, 52 year old Lin Yifan, told police he was forced into a white SUV by the group impersonating law enforcement. Lin reported being held at gunpoint, robbed of his cash and belongings, and then left stranded near a shooting range on Soi Chaiyapruek 2, approximately 9 kilometers from the abduction site. The story Thai police capture Chinese suspect in airport escape attempt as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya police detain four over Chinese man’s abduction, robberyLegacyPolice in Pattaya have detained four people, comprising two Chinese nationals and two Thais, in relation to the abduction and robbery of a Chinese national by people impersonating police officers earlier this week. The incident unfolded at approximately 5.30am on July 10 outside a noodle shop located on North Pattaya Road. Lin Yifan, a 52 year old man, was reportedly coerced into entering a white SUV by a group presenting themselves as police officers. According to Lin’s statement to the police, he was restrained at gunpoint, robbed of his cash and personal belongings, and subsequently abandoned on the roadside, roughly 9 kilometres away near a shooting range on Soi Chaiyapruek 2. The perpetrators subsequently transferred around 150,000 baht (US$4,630) from Lin’s Chinese bank account through a mobile application. The cumulative value of the stolen items surpassed 230,000 baht (US$7,100). Following the examination of CCTV footage, police apprehended four people yesterday, July 12. The suspects include Chinese nationals 37 years old Han Longding and 63 years old Han Zhangchou, along with Thai nationals 35  years old Siripong Chiebleam and 38 years old Thitiphong Phongpiriyakul. During police interrogations, the suspects disclosed that they were hired by a Chinese people named Yong to execute the crime. It was reported that Han Zhangchou drove Han Longding to collect the two Thai suspects to carry out the crime. Police later traced the vehicle used in the crime to a residence in the Min Buri district of Bangkok. Although the suspects attempted to dispose of their phones by submerging them in water, efforts are being made to recover the remaining stolen items, reported Bangkok Post. Police clarified that the suspects were not associated with any rogue police factions but were rather a group driven by theft. They are all facing robbery charges, and investigations continue. In similar news, a brave Thai security guard foiled an attempted bank robbery by a knife-wielding thief in Buriram province on June 18. The story Pattaya police detain four over Chinese man’s abduction, robbery as seen on Thaiger News.

Thai and foreign tourists filled Pattaya Beach all day long — sunbathing, dining, and enjoying water sports in the heart of the city. PATTAYA, Thailand – Tourism in Pattaya surged during the four-day holiday weekend from July 10–13, declared in celebration of Asalha Bucha Day and the start of Buddhist Lent. Both Thai and international tourists descended on the resort city to enjoy some seaside relief, with two top destinations seeing heavy foot traffic — Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Island. By the morning of July 12, Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya was teeming with visitors lining up for ferries to Koh Larn. The island — famous for its clear waters, soft sand, and natural charm — remained the top escape for holidaymakers. At the same time, Pattaya Beach itself was crowded from morning to evening, as travelers who preferred to stay on the mainland laid out towels, rented umbrellas, and enjoyed water sports or beachside dining. Despite the tourist influx, ferry operators kept fares unchanged at 30 baht per person per trip. No price hikes were reported. The city also provided free parking at the Blue Zone lot, which accommodates up to 200 vehicles, easing access for those driving in from nearby provinces. Ferries ran nonstop to accommodate visitors eager to reach Pattaya’s most popular island getaway. City officials, tourist police, and marine officers were stationed at Bali Hai Pier and Pattaya Beach throughout the day to ensure safety and manage the flow of people. Passengers were reminded to wear life jackets onboard, and clear signage was posted to assist and guide tourists at the pier. On the beach, municipal staff monitored the crowd and enforced cleanliness and safety regulations. Locals and tourism advocates praised the city’s coordination but stressed the importance of fair treatment and transparency. One comment circulating online suggested: “Koh Larn and Naklua’s Lan Pho Market are Pattaya’s crown jewels. If we take care of prices and treat tourists like family, they’ll keep coming back.” Another added: “Put up clear signs with hotline numbers and LINE QR codes in Thai and English. It gives tourists confidence they’ll be heard if anything goes wrong.” The bustling scene at both Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn shows that the city remains a top destination during holiday periods — but it also underscores the need for consistent standards, tourist-friendly pricing, and responsive services to sustain momentum beyond the weekend. Ferry fares remained at 30 baht per trip, and Pattaya offered free parking for up to 200 cars near the pier to ease congestion. Residents urge better signage, multilingual complaint hotlines, and fair treatment to keep tourism strong and secure.   Shorelines were dotted with umbrellas and picnic mats as groups from all walks of life embraced the long weekend by the sea. With calm waters and clear skies, Pattaya Beach offered the perfect backdrop for everything from early dips to golden hour snapshots.

Pattaya urges tourists and locals to keep beaches and footpaths smoke-free for a clean, healthy environment. Report violations to 1337 or snap a photo to help keep the beaches safe and enjoyable for all. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City has implemented a strict no-smoking policy on all its beach areas, including the footpaths, to promote public health and maintain cleanliness. Prominent signs have been installed along the beachfronts clearly informing visitors and locals that smoking is prohibited everywhere on the beach and adjacent footpaths. This initiative aims to reduce litter from cigarette butts, improve air quality, and provide a cleaner, more family-friendly environment for everyone enjoying the beaches. With the growing number of tourists visiting Pattaya, the city has introduced more regulations and is diligently asking for everyone’s cooperation to respect these rules. Authorities regularly patrol the beaches to enforce the ban and remind offenders of the regulations. Anyone caught smoking in prohibited areas may face fines of up to 5,000 baht. Pattaya’s beaches are public spaces meant for all to enjoy — not venues for private parties or exclusive gatherings. The city emphasizes that maintaining cleanliness and order is essential to preserving these spots as welcoming and accessible for families, tourists, and locals alike. The city also urges everyone to dispose of garbage properly by using the dustbins provided along the beach and footpaths. Dumping trash anywhere else harms the environment and diminishes the beauty of these public spaces. In addition, the city urges beach operators to actively warn tourists about the no-smoking policy and to refrain from burning substances or playing loud noises and music that disturb others. This cooperation helps ensure a peaceful and enjoyable environment for everyone on the beach. To support enforcement efforts, the city encourages the public to report violations by calling 1337 or by taking photos to present to officials. This community involvement helps keep Pattaya’s beaches safe, clean, and enjoyable for all.

Local hotels and restaurants in Pattaya revamp pricing strategies to align with the government’s 50% travel subsidy program. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) opened public registration for the “Half-Half Travel Thailand” scheme on July 10, following upgrades to its digital infrastructure. Citizens can now register through the Amazing Thailand app or the official program website. Backed by a 1.75 billion baht budget, the program subsidizes 50 percent of costs for accommodation, food vouchers, and tourism-related activities. Each registrant may claim up to five entitlements—three for accommodation in major cities and two for secondary destinations. Entitlements are available on a first-come, first-served basis and require full payment to be made directly to participating hotels. Only one room per entitlement is allowed per night. With tourism hubs like Pattaya designated among the primary destinations, local businesses are expected to shift gears to fully leverage the scheme. Hotels, restaurants, and wellness providers in Pattaya are updating pricing and packages to attract domestic travelers, especially during weekends and public holidays. The city’s inclusion in the scheme is seen as a key opportunity to stimulate mid-year tourism, balance out seasonal dips, and encourage more overnight stays. To access the program, users must complete identity verification via ThaID, a government-issued digital ID platform. Verification is required before bookings can be redeemed. TAT has opted to use its in-house application rather than third-party platforms to collect real-time travel data, which supports long-term tourism planning and allows local businesses to tailor services more effectively. The app has been enhanced with new features using existing resources, avoiding the need for additional funding. Hotels can now submit weekday and weekend pricing separately, offering travelers more flexibility. After resolving early technical issues, TAT launched a new registration domain, restructured the identity process to occur before payment, expanded its Call Center team, and improved LINE-based chat support. The system now operates more smoothly. TAT is also monitoring complaints about inflated hotel prices. Operators found raising rates beyond recent averages will receive warnings. Those that do not comply may be removed from the program. As of 8:30 a.m. on July 11, over 1.58 million people had registered. A total of 91,008 entitlements had been booked and paid for, while 408,992 remained available. Currently, 5,254 businesses have been approved, including 2,957 hotels and accommodations, 1,968 restaurants, 84 tourist attractions, 96 spa and wellness providers, 101 OTOP vendors, and 48 vehicle and boat rental services. Users can complete registration and receive assistance entirely online. For help, the public may visit the official program website, register via the Amazing Thailand app, call the Call Center at 02-483-0963, or message the LINE Official Account @ThaiTravelCopay. Support is available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Surviving the Slump – Tourists urge Pattaya’s bar girls to adapt, save smart, and stay healthy during tough times. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya weathers one of its toughest low seasons, foreign tourists and regular visitors are sending blunt but practical advice to the city’s beer bar girls: adapt to survive. Many tourists note that while some bar girls are resilient, too many spend quickly on shopping and salons instead of saving. Some also say partners “teeraks” don’t help financially, leaving them vulnerable. Empathy exists, but so do frank words: lose weight gained in lockdowns, rethink spending habits, and focus on staying healthy. Visitors warn Thailand isn’t the cheapest choice anymore. Regional rivals like Vietnam and Malaysia offer better value and relaxed cannabis laws that draw younger travelers. At the same time, Pattaya’s rising prices – drinks, bar fines jumping from 300 to over 3,000 baht, and “different prices for different dancers” – risk scaring away quality tourists. Some say bars need to rethink both pricing and customer service to keep regulars coming back. Beyond nightlife, complaints include overpriced Western meals, expensive hospitals, and scams like forcing tourists to buy extra drinks before paying a bar fine. Coupled with rising costs and economic uncertainty in Europe, the U.S., and Australia, fewer tourists may choose Thailand over cheaper alternatives. Still, visitors praise Pattaya’s affordable street food and family-friendly moments, calling on local authorities to help keep prices reasonable and protect the city’s unique charm. Some joke that cutting back on fast food could help bar girls find more foreign suitors. In short, tourists want fairness, better service, and authentic fun, while urging bar girls to save smarter and stay fit. As one seasoned visitor summed up: “It’s not the end – but it might be the end of the beginning.” With effort on both sides, Pattaya’s nightlife could yet bounce back.

Cloudy But Calm – While much of Thailand braces for heavy rain, Pattaya enjoys dry skies and no signs of storms this week. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – While much of Thailand braces for heavy to very heavy rain, especially in the North and upper Northeast, Pattaya remains calm under a blanket of harmless clouds. Despite the broader nationwide alert from the Thai Meteorological Department, this coastal city appears to be spared — for now. The Department’s Announcement No. 4 warns of intense rainfall from July 12–13, particularly affecting provinces like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, and parts of Isan such as Udon Thani, Loei, and Sakon Nakhon. These regions are at risk of flash flooding and forest runoff, especially in low-lying areas and near mountain slopes. Meanwhile, Pattaya residents and tourists can continue their week without umbrellas constantly at hand. The sky remains mostly overcast, but there’s no serious threat of rainfall or flooding expected during this forecast window. It’s a welcome relief for beachgoers, vendors, and businesses that rely on dry weather during this busy mid-year period. However, officials urge people not to let their guard down entirely. “Weather can shift quickly, especially with strong monsoon activity nearby,” a local city spokesperson said. “Stay alert, but enjoy the current calm.” Those planning travel upcountry are advised to take extra precautions, especially if heading toward the northern highlands or Isan. And as always, boat operators in the Andaman Sea are urged to proceed with caution due to waves reaching 2–3 meters and potentially higher in stormy zones. In short, Pattaya may have clouds lingering overhead — but no drama below. For now, the city stays dry, while the rest of the country keeps a closer watch on the skies.

Curiosity in the Claw Machine – A 3-year-old boy in the U.S. climbs inside a claw machine, prompting safety warnings for Pattaya parents. PATTAYA, Thailand – A lighthearted trip to the mall could turn into a serious scare if parents aren’t careful: local officials are warning Pattaya parents to keep a close eye on young children around claw machines, after a real-life incident in the U.S. where a toddler ended up trapped inside one of the popular prize machines. The warning follows an incident that occurred on July 7 in Mason, Ohio. Surveillance footage from a local shopping mall showed a curious 3-year-old boy inspecting a claw machine filled with plush toys. Fascinated by the toy chute, the child bent down to take a closer look — and somehow managed to squeeze his way up through the opening and into the machine, becoming completely stuck inside among the stuffed animals. Emergency responders quickly arrived after being notified. They carefully moved the machine to a nearby shop and opened the back panel, safely freeing the boy. Thankfully, the child was unharmed and reunited with his father. While this incident ended safely, it’s a clear reminder of how quickly things can go wrong — especially for small children drawn to the bright lights and tempting prizes of these machines. In Pattaya, where shopping malls, arcades, and entertainment zones are common, claw machines are everywhere. Authorities are urging parents to stay vigilant and never leave children unattended near them. “Claw machines may look harmless, but their openings are often large enough for toddlers to squeeze through,” a Pattaya official said. “Once inside, they’re trapped, frightened, and at risk.” Bright Lights, Real Dangers – Pattaya officials urge supervision after toddler gets trapped inside a stuffed toy machine in Ohio. Safety Tips for Parents: -Supervise young children closely in malls and arcades. -Don’t allow children to insert hands, heads, or bodies into prize chutes. -If an incident occurs, contact mall security or emergency services immediately — don’t try to force the machine open yourself. As one concerned Pattaya parent put it: “We’ve all seen kids try to reach in for a toy — but never thought they’d actually climb inside.” In a city full of lights and distractions, it’s an important reminder: fun and safety must go hand in hand. From Cute to Critical – Claw machines may look harmless, but one wrong move could turn playtime into a rescue mission.

Women detain rider accused of blackmail in PattayaLegacyOn the evening of yesterday, July 12, a group of women in Pattaya took decisive action by detaining a 26 year old motorbike rider nicknamed Boom Khunphaen Rider, identified as Phonlawat, and handed him over to Pattaya police. The man is accused of blackmail, assault, and making threats involving explicit videos. The confrontation took place outside a motorbike rental shop in Central Pattaya. Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Dusadee, who leads the crime suppression unit at the Pattaya City Police Station, responded to the incident after receiving reports. Upon arrival, they encountered about 10 young men and women, including the victims, holding the suspect. One victim, 30 year old Oranong, recounted her experience to The Pattaya News team. She explained that her acquaintance with Phonlawat began through a dating app and Facebook, leading to a relationship. However, she later alleged that he assaulted her and threatened to release intimate videos if she did not comply with his demands. Four additional women have come forward with similar allegations. Among them is 32 year old Jiraporn, who had previously lodged three complaints against Phonlawat for incidents including vandalism, threats to leak videos, and physical assault. A Facebook warning post by one victim attracted over 1,000 comments condemning the suspect and encouraging other victims to speak up, revealing a recurring pattern of abuse. Phonlawat admitted to meeting multiple women via dating apps and having relationships, but denied recording or threatening anyone, asserting that all interactions were consensual. He also disclaimed responsibility for any property damage. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News Investigating officer Lieutenant Anirut Jehrah of the Pattaya Police Station has interviewed all victims and recorded the suspect’s details. To maintainorder, the group was dispersed, with plans for further questioning. Should Phonlawat be found guilty, he will face charges and legal proceedings as per the law, reported The Pattaya News. Police are appealing for anyone with additional information to assist as the investigation progresses. The story Women detain rider accused of blackmail in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

ปิดจ๊อบ! ตำรวจพัทยา ตามลากคอแก๊งจีน อุ้มปล้นเพื่อนร่วมชาติ สารภาพหวังโกยเงินดิจิตอล ความคืบหน้ากรณีกลุ่มคนร้าย 4 คน อ้างตัวเป็นตำรวจก่อเหตุ ฉุดกระชากแล้วอุ้ม นายหลิน  อายุ 52 ปี ชาวจีน ขึ้นรถเอสยูวี ( คาดว่าน่าจะเป็นรถไฟฟ้า BYD ) สีขาว เหตุเกิดที่ร้านก๋วยเตี๋ยว – อาหารจีน ริมถนนพัทยาเหนือสาย 3 ม.6 ต.นาเกลือ อ.บางละมุง จ.ชลบุรีก่อนพานั่งรถไปตามถนน ใช้อาวุธปืนจี้ จับมือไพล่หลัง ก่อนจะปล้นเอาทรัพย์สิน ทั้ง โทรศัพท์มือถือ,เงินสด ,ไปจนหมดตัว ก่อนจะพาไปปล่อยทิ้งไว้ที่ริมถนนทางรถไฟ ย่านซอยชัยฤกษ์ 2 หน้าสนามยิงปืน ห่างจากจุดเกิดเหตุประมาณ 9 กม. หลังจากติดต่อให้คนมาช่วย ยังพบว่าเงินในบัญชีธนาคารประเทศจีน ถูกโอนออกผ่านแอพพลิเคชั่น ประมาณ 1.5 แสนบาท ซึ่งรวมทรัพย์สินและเงินสดในธนาคาร ที่ถูกคนร้ายก่อเหตุไป เป็นเงินกว่า 2.3 แสนบาท เหตุเกิดเมื่อวันที่ […]