Fake Pattaya taxi rider arrested for stealing from Russian woman
Police arrested a Thai man who posed as a motorcycle taxi rider, stole from a Russian woman, and attempted to rob a Thai woman in Pattaya at the weekend.
The Thai woman, 21 year old Wichayada, and the Russian woman, Liliia, lodged complaints with Mueang Pattaya Police Station on Sunday, April 20, after being targeted by a man impersonating a motorcycle taxi rider in Soi Phratamnak, Pattaya.
Wichayada reported that the man offered her a ride, which she declined, choosing instead to walk away. Unexpectedly, he followed her and brandished a firearm, threatening her to hand over her valuables. Fortunately, Wichayada managed to seek help from staff at a nearby hotel.
Liliia reported that she was with a friend and her three year old daughter when the suspect approached and threatened her with a gun, prompting her to hand over 3,100 baht in cash out of fear.
Police reviewed CCTV footage and identified the suspect as 30 year old Ukrit Mangkang. He was not a legitimate motorcycle taxi rider but disguised himself as one to target victims, usually women travelling alone at night.
Ukrit was arrested yesterday, April 22, while dining with friends near Soi Pattaya Beach 13/4. Police confiscated the firearm and motorcycle used in the crimes as evidence.
The suspect confessed to the offences, claiming that a series of misfortunes in his life drove him to commit the crimes.
Police revealed that Ukrit had previously been arrested and imprisoned on drug and theft charges. He had only recently been released from prison before reoffending.
Ukrit now faces two charges:
- Section 337 of the Criminal Law: Using threats or violence to force another person to surrender property or provide benefits. The penalty ranges from six months to seven years’ imprisonment and a fine of 10,000 to 40,000 baht. The use of a firearm increased the penalty by half.
- Section 8 of the Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks, and Imitation Firearms Act: Carrying a firearm in public without permission or necessity. The penalty is up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.
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