Acting on a tip-off, officers yesterday (Jan 15) arrested a Chinese national named by officers only as “Mr Yang” (not his real name). Police did not disclose the location of his arrest.
Mr Yang was found with documents in English and Thai presenting himself as a deaf-mute volunteer collecting donations on behalf of a child with leukemia who needed a bone-marrow transplant.
He was also found with cash donations he had already collected.
The officers detained him on charges of soliciting money on a public road and soliciting through print advertising without permission. He was taken to Phuket City Police Station for further legal action.
Police urged people to beware people asking for money on the basis of such claims. “We would like to warn the public not to be fooled or to assist foreigners who appear to be mute or disabled and with documents requesting sympathy,” officers noted.
“These people can come in the form of tourists. If you encounter them, please notify the police by calling 191,” police said.
In Thailand, begging on the street is illegal unless the person has been issued a permit. Applicants are vetted thoroughly, with permits issued at regular intervals throughout the year.