Two Algerian pickpockets targeting tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport were caught after a Chinese victim used the Tourist Police app to report the theft. Police seized stolen goods and cash in a dawn raid. Authorities vow tougher crackdowns on transnational theft rings operating in the capital targeting visitors.
Two Algerian pickpockets were arrested by Tourist Police on Sunday during a pre-dawn raid carried out with arrest warrants. The operation followed a successful investigation launched after a Chinese tourist filed a complaint through the Tourist Police app. The suspects, aged 59 and 58, were taken into custody at an apartment in the Ramkhamhaeng area. Notably, police recovered cash and several stolen items during the raid, including belongings of the Chinese victim who had been targeted at the main airport’s passenger terminal.
Two Algerian nationals accused of pickpocketing tourists at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and across the city have been arrested. The suspects, identified as Mr. Omer, 59, and Mr. Ahmed, 58, were caught in a June 1 police raid. Tourist Police, with help from local officers, tracked them down to a residence in the Ramkhamhaeng area of Bangkok. Both men were taken into custody without resistance. Officers seized evidence including clothing worn during the theft, cash, and stolen goods.
Police recovered ฿40,000 in cash, luxury-branded merchandise, and electronic cards believed to belong to other victims.
Arrest of two Algerian nationals caught pickpocketing tourists at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and citywide
The investigation began when a Chinese tourist, Mr. Yang, filed a report using the Thailand Tourist Police Application. Yang had been waiting at Gate 4 in Passenger Terminal 1 of Suvarnabhumi Airport when he was targeted.
He said two men followed him and a friend as they waited for a taxi outside the terminal building. Shortly after standing up to locate a cab, Yang discovered his bag had been opened. Personal belongings were missing. He immediately contacted police through the app, giving a detailed description of the suspects and events.
Tourist Police at Suvarnabhumi Airport reviewed CCTV footage near Gate 4 and the Airport Rail Link entrance. The footage confirmed the crime. Two foreign men clearly worked together to carry out the theft. They had entered the airport using the Airport Rail Link, which connects to central Bangkok.
The men followed Yang through the terminal before positioning themselves near him in the taxi zone. When Yang stood up, one suspect reached into his bag. The other blocked Yang’s view during the theft.
Investigation started after a Chinese tourist reported theft through Thailand’s Tourist Police Application
They executed the move in seconds and quickly walked away, vanishing into the crowd. Because of this clear evidence, officers were able to identify the suspects. Further footage from other locations showed the same men near various BTS stations and department stores.
Police confirmed the two had operated for weeks, possibly longer, across multiple crowded areas in the capital. They chose high-traffic places like train stations, shopping malls, and airport terminals. Their method was always the same: one acted as thief, the other as a lookout and shield.
After stealing wallets or cards, they used them to purchase high-end goods at Bangkok malls. They returned each time to their apartment in Ramkhamhaeng with the merchandise. Tourist Police linked the items found at the residence to purchases made using the stolen cards.
Once investigators had gathered enough evidence, they coordinated with Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station to request arrest warrants. These were approved by the Samut Prakan Provincial Court, which has jurisdiction over the airport area.
CCTV footage confirmed suspects’ coordinated pickpocketing across BTS stations and shopping malls
At sunrise on Sunday, June 1, officers conducted a raid at the suspect’s apartment. Both men were arrested without incident. Items matching those seen in CCTV footage were recovered. Police also seized several electronic cards believed to belong to tourists who hadn’t yet filed complaints.
The suspects were charged with conspiracy to commit theft in an airport and illegal use of electronic cards. They were then transferred to Suvarnabhumi Police Station for further questioning and legal processing.
Tourist Police reached out to Mr. Yang to inform him of the successful arrest. He responded via WeChat, expressing deep gratitude for their quick action and dedication. Yang said he would return to Thailand as a tourist and would personally reclaim his stolen property. He also praised the professionalism of the Thai police, stating he felt justice had been served.
Police raided suspects’ apartment at sunrise. Arrested them without resistance and seized stolen property
Tourist Police noted that Yang’s fast report had made a crucial difference in the case. Because of the prompt alert and accurate description, officers were able to act within days. They reminded tourists to report crimes immediately through the app, hotline, or local stations.
Thailand’s Tourist Police Bureau has emphasized a renewed focus on stopping transnational theft rings. Criminals often view busy public areas as ideal targets. However, Thai police say that’s changing.
They now use a mix of CCTV monitoring, undercover surveillance, and digital tip-offs to track suspects. Investigators are also working to identify other victims who may have been targeted by the same duo. Transaction records linked to the stolen cards are being reviewed.
Police believe the suspects could be part of a larger international pickpocketing network. Interpol has been notified and coordination with foreign law enforcement may follow.
Authorities are also considering stronger surveillance measures at Suvarnabhumi Airport. These could include more officers in plainclothes and expanded CCTV coverage in terminal and transport areas.
Prompt report via app led to quick arrests; victim praises Thai police for professionalism and justice
Tourist Police said they will continue active patrols in tourist-heavy areas, especially near rail links and popular attractions. This case highlights how criminal operations often rely on subtle teamwork and distraction tactics.
By splitting roles, pickpocket pairs can strike in seconds and disappear unnoticed. However, police say this strategy is increasingly ineffective thanks to better training and faster coordination. In recent years, officers have received specialized training in handling airport-related crimes.
They now work closely with airport staff, local police, and international agencies. Evidence collected from this case will be used to train new officers in identifying similar methods. Police are also launching a public awareness campaign to warn tourists about common pickpocket strategies.
Tips include securing bags, staying alert in crowded spaces, and avoiding placing valuables in easy-to-reach pockets. Tourists are advised to stay alert when standing in queues or looking for transportation.
Tourist Police intensify crackdown on transnational theft rings using CCTV and digital tip-offs
These are moments when pickpockets are most likely to strike. Despite the arrest, Tourist Police are not letting their guard down. They suspect other teams may be operating in the region, possibly using similar tactics.
Follow-up operations are underway, especially in areas with high tourist foot traffic. Officials praised the inter-agency collaboration that led to the swift arrest. They said it sent a strong message to international criminals that Thailand takes tourist safety seriously.
Police stressed that Bangkok remains safe for travellers, but vigilance is still necessary. They reiterated their commitment to tracking down anyone who targets visitors for theft or fraud. Tourist Police urged the public to continue using the reporting app and to share tips when suspicious activity is observed.
Officers said community participation and rapid digital alerts now play a major role in catching offenders. Mr. Yang’s case is now being used as an example of how cooperation between tourists and police can bring results.
Specialized training and public awareness campaigns aim to prevent pickpocket distraction tactics
Although his trip was disrupted, he expressed satisfaction with how the situation was resolved. Police said they expect charges to proceed swiftly through the court system. If convicted, the suspects could face significant jail time under Thai criminal law.
The case has drawn attention from embassies, travel agencies, and airport authorities alike. It has also emphasised the rising importance of digital policing tools in tracking criminals.
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As international travel rebounds, police say vigilance is more important than ever. While pickpocketing remains a global issue, Thailand’s response is growing faster and more coordinated. The Royal Thai Police promise continued protection for tourists and stronger action against international crime networks targeting the country.
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