Phuket police have arrested four British nationals in connection with a violent daytime robbery targeting a 40-year-old American tourist in Cherng Talay. The incident, which occurred on September 19 near Layan Soi 7, involved a high-speed chase, assault, and the theft of a luxury wristwatch valued at approximately 2.3 million baht (USD 63,000), authorities reported.
According to the Cherng Talay Police, the victim, a Swiss-based attorney holding three passports, was returning to his accommodation when a sedan rammed his motorcycle. Two large men then exited the vehicle, striking the man’s neck with the handle of a knife and threatening further violence if he did not surrender his watch. The assailants reportedly spoke in English throughout the confrontation.
Fearing for his safety, the victim complied and handed over the watch. A nearby resident quickly intervened and alerted police. The attorney, who has visited Thailand over 60 times, expressed shock, noting he had never experienced such violence during his travels.
Investigators later discovered the getaway vehicle abandoned in a wooded area in Sakhu, Thalang district. Acting swiftly, officers tracked the suspects to a luxury villa near the Choeng Thale municipal office, where all four were apprehended. During the arrests, police seized three vehicles and successfully recovered the stolen wristwatch.
Preliminary findings suggest the robbery may have been carefully planned. Surveillance footage and witness accounts indicated multiple vehicles were present at the scene, prompting authorities to consider the possibility of an organized group operating in the area targeting high-value tourists.
Cherng Talay Police stated that the suspects are being interrogated to determine the full extent of the operation, including whether additional individuals were involved. Officers are also investigating potential links to other robberies or criminal activity in the region.
Local authorities warned that while Phuket is generally considered safe for visitors, tourists carrying high-value items should exercise caution, particularly in areas known for upscale residences and villas. Police have urged residents and visitors to report suspicious activity immediately and remain vigilant when traveling alone or at night.
The case has raised concerns about the targeting of foreigners by organized groups in Thailand, highlighting the growing need for security measures for both residents and tourists. While the arrest of the four suspects marks a major breakthrough, investigators are continuing their work to ensure the network behind the robbery is fully dismantled.
The victim’s prompt compliance and the quick response of local residents and police were credited with preventing the situation from escalating further. Authorities said their coordinated efforts and swift action were instrumental in securing the stolen property and apprehending the suspects without additional violence.
As the investigation unfolds, Phuket law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety and protecting the island’s tourism industry, which remains a critical component of the local economy.
