Teasure-hunting game Jagat sparks public distirbance in Thailand
Patrol and Special Operations Division police are monitoring players of the treasure-hunting game, Jagat, after reports of community disturbances caused by players searching for virtual coins to earn real-life cash.
Jagat is gaining popularity, particularly in Thailand and Indonesia. The game was developed by Jagat Tech, founded by Barry Beagen and Loy Xing Zhe.
The game operates on a model similar to Pokémon Go, but this game encourages players to search for virtual coins hidden in various locations, which can then be exchanged for real money. Jagat game attracted over 10 million users across the world and recently gained significant traction among Thai players.
In Thailand, virtual coins are reportedly hidden in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Players must follow the map provided in the game’s app to locate the coins and claim rewards.
The value of the coins ranges from 500 to 200,000 baht, depending on the difficulty of finding them. After locating a coin, players must input their codes into the game app to receive the money reward, which is transferred directly to their accounts.
To assist in finding particularly elusive coins, players can purchase in-game items that provide clues about their locations.
These coins are often hidden in unusual or challenging spots, such as behind drainage lids, in narrow spaces between buildings, or even on private property. This has occasionally led players to trespass on private property in their quest for coins.
According to a report by Beartai, some players in Indonesia damaged public infrastructure, such as footpaths, in their attempts to retrieve the coins.
Similar issues have arisen in Thailand, where residents filed numerous complaints with police about strangers entering their homes without permission and causing disturbances, particularly at night.
In response, Patrol and Special Operations Division police have issued warnings to Jagat players, urging them to avoid disruptive behaviour. Offenders could face the following charges:
- Section 362 of the Criminal Law: Trespassing and disturbing another person’s property, punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both.
- Sections 362 and 356 of the Criminal Law: Trespassing and disturbing another person’s property at night, punishable by imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.
- Section 358 of the Criminal Law: Damaging another person’s property, punishable by imprisonment of six months to 10 years and a fine ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 baht.
- Section 392 of the Criminal Law: Causing another person to feel fear or shock through threats, punishable by imprisonment of up to one month, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.
Aside from community disruptions, concerns have also been raised regarding player safety. The game requires players to share their real-time location with online friends while playing and collect personal and e-payment account information.
Authorities have urged players to exercise caution and respect the rights of others while participating in the game.
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