PATTAYA, Thailand – Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the kidnapping and ransom of three Indian tourists in Pattaya, while a manhunt continues for the remaining members of the criminal gang. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetphong, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, has ordered investigators to intensify efforts to dismantle the network responsible for abducting the tourists and demanding ransom from their families in India. The case was solved following coordinated investigative work that led to the rescue of the victims and the arrest of two suspects. Police are now gathering additional evidence and pursuing the remaining accomplices.
Investigators said the gang allegedly used social media to advertise low-cost travel packages, luring victims to Thailand with attractive offers. After arriving, the tourists were reportedly picked up and taken to a rented house, where they were held against their will, assaulted, robbed of their belongings and forced to contact relatives in India to pay a ransom. After receiving a request for assistance from the victims’ families, officers from Pattaya City Police Station and investigative units located the property and rescued all three Indian tourists safely. The investigation subsequently led to the arrest of two suspects, while efforts continue to locate the remaining members of the group.
Provincial Police Region 2 has urged both Thai and foreign tourists to exercise caution when booking travel packages or services through social media platforms. Travellers are advised to verify the credibility of tour operators before making payments or sharing personal information. Police also encouraged anyone who encounters suspicious activity or requires emergency assistance to contact the Royal Thai Police emergency hotline 191 at any time. Authorities pledged to prosecute all those involved and said security measures in Pattaya and other tourist destinations will continue to be strengthened to protect visitors and maintain confidence in Thailand as a safe travel destination.
