PATTAYA — A series of recent incidents involving the alleged robbery of foreign tourists by transgender individuals has prompted concerns about safety in Pattaya, one of Thailand’s most popular coastal destinations. Local police are investigating three reported cases that occurred over the past week, with victims from China and the United States.
The most recent case was reported in the early hours of Saturday, July 19. A 36-year-old Chinese tourist, identified as Mr. Zhang, told police he was robbed of 20,000 baht (approximately USD $617) after bringing a transgender woman he met on Pattaya Beach back to his hotel room.
According to the police report filed with Deputy Inspector Pol. Lt. Mana Sakpol Yiam at Pattaya City Police Station, Zhang said the suspect approached him on the beach and engaged him in friendly conversation. After agreeing to return to his hotel together, Zhang left the woman alone briefly while he took a shower. During that time, the suspect allegedly fled with cash from his belongings.
Another incident took place on July 15 at around 5:00 a.m., when an American tourist reported being assaulted and robbed by two transgender women on Soi 6/1, a small street known for its nightlife venues. The victim said the women approached him offering services and touched him inappropriately before stealing 3,000 baht (about USD $93) from his pocket. When he confronted them, one of the suspects allegedly struck him on the head. He later received assistance from bystanders who helped him report the incident to police.
Police have confirmed that all three incidents are under active investigation, but no arrests have been made at this time. Authorities have not released the identity of the third victim or details of the related case.
These incidents have drawn attention to ongoing safety concerns in Pattaya’s entertainment areas, particularly at night. While the vast majority of visits to Pattaya are trouble-free, local officials are urging tourists to exercise caution, especially when approached by strangers in nightlife zones. Visitors are advised to stay in well-lit areas, avoid secluded streets during late hours, and report any suspicious activity to the local police.
