Two transgender teenagers have been arrested for stabbing and robbing a 45-year-old Australian tourist in a hotel in South Pattaya, Thailand. The incident took place around midnight on May 4th, 2026, according to Pattaya City Police, who coordinated with Tourist Police in the arrest.
Incident Details
The victim, identified as Mr. Alikosh, invited two transgender teens to his accommodation, believing them to be adult biological women. A dispute broke out after he discovered their true gender identity. During the argument, one suspect allegedly pushed the victim into the bathroom and stabbed him in the right chest with a pair of scissors. The pair then stole approximately 6,000 Australian dollars (around 140,000 Thai baht) in cash before fleeing the scene.
Arrest and Charges
Police launched an immediate investigation and tracked the suspects to a nearby condominium. On the evening of May 5th, officers from Pattaya City Police Station and Tourist Police Sub-Division 4 arrested the two suspects, identified as 17-year-old “Pee” and 16-year-old “Pew.” They were found with a pair of scissors, believed to be the weapon, and some of the stolen cash. Both reportedly confessed to the crime. They have been charged with joint robbery at night using a weapon, committed by two or more persons to facilitate theft.
Police Response
Senior officers, including Pol. Lt. Col. Arus Sabanon and Tourist Police investigators, expressed concern that such violent robberies targeting tourists, often involving transgender women, damage Pattaya’s image as a safe destination. “These incidents often occur inside private rooms, making prevention difficult,” police noted. “However, once reported, we respond immediately with full-area searches and rapid arrests.”
Victim's Account
The victim received medical treatment for his stab wound and filed a formal complaint. He stressed that he did not know the suspects were transgender or minors, as they lied about both aspects of their identity. Authorities are stepping up measures to prevent similar crimes and urge tourists to exercise caution when inviting strangers to their accommodations.
