UPDATE: See ’Officials threaten hotel licence after staff room break-in attempt’
Cherng Talay Police confirmed that the suspect, Sgt Kanisorn Nuanglap, 39, a retired military officer and now former head of security at a branded resort in Surin, has been charged with attempted nighttime burglary.
The case came to light after a female DJ staying at the hotel shared a video online on Saturday (Jan 17), prompting police to open a formal investigation.
According to Cherng Talay Police, Mirinda Nalinratanawadee filed an official complaint at 3:56pm on Saturday, reporting that an unidentified man had attempted to enter her hotel room the previous night.
Police said the incident occurred at about 10pm on Friday. Kanisorn allegedly attempted to open the door using a key card but was unable to gain entry as the door was locked from inside.
Investigators reviewed hotel CCTV footage yesterday (Jan 18), which led to the identification of Kanisorn as the perpetrator.
Police explained that on the day of the incident, Kanisorn had finished his official work shift at 4pm but did not leave the premises. Instead, he remained inside his office at the hotel. Later that evening, he changed into casual clothing ‒ a T-shirt, shorts and flip-flops ‒ and left the office.
Investigators said Kanisorn used a master key card assigned to a daily housekeeper, which he was responsible for overseeing, to attempt entry into multiple guest rooms near the victim’s room.
CCTV footage showed Kanisorn approaching Ms Mirinda’s room, ringing the doorbell, knocking and calling out “Hello” before moving away and hiding nearby. He then returned and used the master key card in an attempt to open the door.
However, police said Kanisorn was unable to enter the room as the guest had locked the door from inside and resisted while shouting for help. Kanisorn then fled the area.
Investigators further revealed that Kanisorn attempted to delete CCTV footage of the incident. The footage was later recovered by hotel staff and provided to police.
Following the investigation, officers from Cherng Talay Police Station summoned Kanisorn, who later voluntarily surrendered. As no arrest warrant had been issued at that time, police did not take him into custody immediately.
Police confirmed Kanisorn has been ordered to appear before Phuket Provincial Court. If he fails to do so, an arrest warrant will be issued.
Further checks by investigators revealed that Kanisorn is also facing separate legal proceedings related to a loan and alleged non-repayment in another case.
The hotel has since terminated Kanisorn’s employment, police confirmed.
Cherng Talay Police stressed that the incident was an individual criminal act and does not reflect broader security conditions in the area.
“The safety of tourists and the public remains our top priority,” the station said in a statement, adding that officers remain committed to protecting lives and property.
Meanwhile, the hotel issued a formal apology, acknowledging the impact the incident had on guest safety and confidence.
“The hotel deeply apologises for the incident that occurred, which has affected the feelings and safety of our guests,” the statement read.
“The hotel places the highest priority on the safety and privacy of its guests and is not ignoring this incident. A police report has been filed, and the hotel is fully cooperating with the investigation.
“In addition, an internal audit has been conducted, including a strict review and upgrade of security measures. The hotel thanks everyone for their understanding and reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for guests.”