Karon police arrested four Udon Thani natives at 1:30am today (January 23), including Suriyon Suponok, 22; Satjapong Thamahol, 22, Atpachai Sittitham, 21; and Piyapan Wongyai, 24 across the street from the Royal Paradise Hotel in Patong.
Police said the three ladyboy suspects had allegedly snatched a gold chain from a 44-year-old Australian tourist while he was near Karon Beach. The victim told police that the ladyboys surrounded him and gave him a hug. He did not realise his gold necklace was gone until they ran away.
After checking CCTV footage in the area, police spotted the ladyboy suspects parked in a car in Patong. When approached by police, the suspects confessed to the theft and said they intended to use the money from the necklace to party and buy make-up.
Police seized several items, including the necklace and the Honda Jazz car.
During the arrest, the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe a police officer with B30,000. According to police, a boyfriend of one of the suspects brought the cash to the officer but officers quickly seized the money as evidence and also arrested the boyfriend, named Piyapan.
All four suspects were taken to Karon Police Station to face charges of theft with getaway vehicle and attempted bribery.