American tourist’s visit to Pattaya Beach ends with 3,000 baht theft and head wound
An American tourist was attacked and bloodied after two transgender suspects allegedly tried to rob him during a stroll along Soi Pattaya Beach 6/1, prompting police to vow increased surveillance and swift justice.
PATTAYA, Thailand — An early-morning beachside stroll turned violent for an American tourist on July 15, when an attempted theft by two transgender individuals escalated into a bloody confrontation. The incident, which took place around 5 a.m. in Soi Pattaya Beach 6/1, highlights growing concerns over opportunistic crimes targeting visitors in Pattaya’s nightlife areas.
According to police reports, the tourist was approached by two provocatively dressed transgender individuals who offered companionship. As they got close, one allegedly slipped a hand into the man’s pocket, stealing 3,000 baht in cash. When the tourist realized what had happened and demanded the money back, the situation quickly spiraled into violence.
A verbal altercation turned physical when one of the suspects struck the tourist on the head with a bottle, leaving him bleeding. The injured man managed to flee and sought help from a passerby, who escorted him to the Pattaya Police Station.
Police investigator Pol. Capt. Chanan Kesornbua has ordered a review of nearby CCTV footage and tasked officers with locating the suspects. Authorities are treating the case as a serious assault and theft and say more resources are now being deployed to patrol known trouble spots along the beachfront.
The incident adds to a growing list of petty and violent crimes reported in Pattaya, especially during the early hours when intoxicated tourists are most vulnerable. While Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s top destinations, local residents and business owners say law enforcement must act swiftly to preserve its reputation.
“Beach thefts are no longer isolated incidents,” said a longtime hotelier. “This is happening far too often — and it’s costing us in trust.”
Tourists are being advised to remain alert, avoid secluded alleys late at night, and report suspicious encounters immediately. Police have promised to increase surveillance and ensure justice is served in this case.
Pattaya police review CCTV footage to track suspects in pre-dawn assault and robbery near Pattaya Beach, aiming for swift arrests.