Pattaya Faces Rising Concerns Over Tourist Scams

Pattaya Faces Rising Concerns Over Tourist Scams

PATTAYA, March 30, 2026 — A Finnish tourist has reported being drugged and robbed by two women in Pattaya, highlighting ongoing concerns over scams and crime targeting visitors in the popular resort city.

Police said the 30-year-old man filed a complaint early Sunday after he alleged that two women he met at a bar spiked his drink, causing him to lose consciousness before stealing cash and a luxury watch from his hotel room.

The victim told investigators he had invited the women back to his accommodation in the Jomtien area, where he later became unusually drowsy and passed out. When he woke, about 5,000 baht in cash and a Rolex watch worth around 700,000 baht ($19,000) were missing.

Authorities have launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage from the hotel and nearby areas to identify the suspects.

The case adds to growing concerns over daily scams and petty crime in Pattaya, where tourists have reported incidents involving drink spiking, theft and fraud.

Officials have urged visitors to remain cautious, particularly when socialising with strangers, as police continue efforts to address safety issues in the city.