Ink-redible heist: Chon Buri tattoo shop duped by fake cop

A tattoo shop owner in Chon Buri fell victim to a man impersonating a police officer, losing gold and valuable amulets worth 300,000 baht. The imposter, claiming to be a lieutenant from the Crime Suppression Division, exploited the owner’s trust by pretending to suffer from depression.

Yesterday, October 15, journalists visited the tattoo shop in Ban Kao subdistrict, Phan Thong district, where they met the owner, 29 year old Phonchai Hanchaiyapoom. Phonchai showed the reporters the sleeping area prepared for the man, who identified himself as Ratthathammanun Insom, allegedly a police lieutenant.

The only trace left by Ratthathamnun was a black cap. Phonchai also pointed out the drawer where he used to keep his amulets, now missing except for one locket.

Phonchai recounted meeting Ratthathamnun at a friend’s barber shop on October 13. Ratthathamnun introduced himself as a lieutenant from the Crime Suppression Division, claiming he was on a break to cope with depression after breaking up with his girlfriend. Seeing him as a fellow young man in need, Phonchai invited him to stay at his shop.

On October 13, after returning from a late-night barbecue around midnight, Phonchai removed his gold chain and stored it in his bedroom drawer. The following afternoon, October 14, Ratthathamnun asked to use the bathroom. Distracted by a tattoo session with a client, Phonchai allowed him to go without hesitation.

Later that evening, Ratthathamnun inquired about Phonchai’s amulet collection. Phonchai showed him the amulets and discussed their prices. Ratthathamnun then mentioned he had to run an errand in Bangkok and would return later. He left behind a cap and had a friend drive him to the bus terminal.

Fake police

The next morning, Phonchai tried to contact Ratthathamnun to no avail. His friend, who had driven Ratthathamnun, mentioned that Ratthathamnun wore a gold chain similar to Phonchai’s. Alarmed, Phonchai checked his drawer and found his gold missing: one 1-baht chain, one 2-baht chain, and a gold-framed amulet. The total loss amounted to approximately 300,000 baht (US$9,000).

Phonchai was convinced Ratthathamnun was a real officer due to his appearance and mannerisms. Ratthathamnun frequently received calls where the caller addressed him as lieutenant or inspector. Even during outings, local police officers treated him with apparent recognition and respect. This behaviour reinforced Phonchai’s belief in Ratthathamnun’s false identity, reported KhaoSod.

Phonchai’s shop often sees people coming and going, yet nothing had ever gone missing until Ratthathamnun’s visit. Phonchai warned others to be cautious, as scammers can assume various guises.