Jetski Gang Tries To Extort THB From Pattaya Marriott Guests

Travelling Police Pataya (TPP) arrested five men operating a jetski rental on the Pattaya beach. The gang had threatened foreign tourists after the jetski rented by the tourists and the jet was damaged. The gang wanted more than 200,000 THB for the damage. The tourists refused to pay and the gang threatened to beat the tourists. Later the gang was arrested.

Pattaya, September 24, 2011[PDN]; Pol. Lt. Col. Aroon Prompan (Travelling Police Pattaya) and Pol. Sub. Lt. Chaleaw Srichong were notified of the arrest of a gang of a jetski boat operators extorting money from tourists.

The five suspects detained are: Mr. Jaturong or “Jongrak”| Singhakam age 24, address 576/2 Moo 10 Tambon Nong Preu, Chonburi, Mr. Somporn or “Taem” Thongpraiwan age 27, from 116 Moo 3 Tambon Daanchang, Supanburi, Mr.Sripaiporn or ” Moo” Monto age 27, from 20/43 Moo 6 Tambon, Sattahip, Mr. Akkarin or “Tai” Thongpraiwan age 26 from 116 Moo 3, Tambon Daanchang, Supanburi and Mr. Aroon or “Pom” Choomkaew age 36, address 407/65 Moo 12 Tambon Nong Preu, Chonburi. All suspects are operating a jetski rental service in Pattaya Beach Soi 10-11. The arrest took place at the lobby of the Mariott Resort & Spa in Pattaya in Central Pattaya. The gang is accused of threat and they will be prosecuted according to Thai law.

Pol. Lt. Col. Aroon Prompan (Travelling Police Pattaya) 11.30 hrs was notified by Mr. Somsak Tanreungsri Duty Manager of Marriott Spa & Resort that eight Thai men arrived at the hotel and were threatening a to beat the hotel guests.

Upon inspection the police found five suspects trying to extort money from four foreign tourists for the damage to a jetski which was involved in a collission. The amount for the damage: 200,000 THB. The tourists refused to pay and called the police. At the police station, the jetski gang were still threatening the tourists and demanding the money.

When the police was informed about this case they immediately arrested the five suspects in order to prevent further damage to the reputation of Pattaya since threats and extortions from jetski operators are common. The five suspects confessed on all accounts.