Pattaya Police quickly nab suspect after Russian tourist robbed at screwdriver point
Pattaya Police arrest Cambodian suspect in quick robbery; Russian tourist praises swift recovery and vows to return.
PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya police have swiftly apprehended a Cambodian man suspected of robbing a Russian tourist just hours after the incident.
At 8:06 PM on July 28, a 28-year-old Russian woman was threatened with a screwdriver and had her handbag snatched by a man on a motorcycle in Soi Chalermprakiat 14, on Third Road. The thief escaped with approximately 5,000 baht in cash.
Authorities immediately launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage and collecting witness accounts to track down the suspect.
At around 4:30 PM on July 29, police arrested 28-year-old Chid Chan, a Cambodian national, in Soi Sukhumvit 71. Officers recovered the victim’s handbag and other evidence.
Chid confessed to the crime, explaining that he was unemployed and unable to support his wife and child. Due to border conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia, he struggled to find work as a Cambodian national and became desperate. He admitted to borrowing a motorcycle from an acquaintance and searching for a victim, ultimately targeting the Russian tourist in a secluded alley.
The victim praised Pattaya police for their prompt and effective response, noting that the suspect was caught within hours and her belongings were returned. She also expressed confidence in Pattaya’s safety and police protection, stating she plans to return for future visits.
Police have charged Chid with robbery and have submitted the case for prosecution.
Police review CCTV and witness accounts to track down robbery suspect.