Thai fortune teller predicts loss, then is arrested for allegedly stealing young woman’s iPhone in Pattaya
A Thai fortune teller has been arrested after allegedly stealing a woman’s iPhone moments after predicting she would lose a valuable possession. The New Year’s Day incident occurred outside a temple in Pattaya, where the phone was later found hidden in the suspect’s bag.
- A Thai fortune teller allegedly stole a woman’s iPhone after predicting she would lose something valuable.
- The phone was found hidden in his bag by bystanders and rescue workers at the scene.
- Police said the suspect admitted the offence, and the victim chose to press charges.
BANGKOK: Thai police have arrested a 38-year-old fortune teller accused of stealing a young woman’s iPhone shortly after predicting she would lose a valuable possession, authorities said.
The incident occurred at about 6.06 am on New Year’s Day in Chonburi province, outside Wat Chaimongkol temple in South Pattaya, according to local reports.
Fortune-telling session ends in alleged theft
The victim, identified as 19-year-old Pim, told police she was approached by the man while he was seated on a mat along the pavement opposite the temple.
Dressed and speaking in a manner resembling an elderly person, he offered her a fortune-telling session.
Believing the encounter to be an act of merit at the start of the New Year, she agreed.
During the session, the man allegedly warned that she would soon face misfortune and risk losing a valuable possession.
He then attempted to persuade her to pay additional money to ward off the bad luck, which she refused.
After leaving, Ms Pim realised her iPhone 13 Pro, valued at about 20,000 baht (approximately US$560) was missing.
Phone found hidden in suspect’s bag
Suspecting theft, she sought help from rescue workers and members of the public nearby.
A search led to the discovery of the phone hidden inside the man’s shoulder bag, concealed within a box of surgical masks.
The suspect was detained at the scene by rescue workers and bystanders before officers from Pattaya City Police Station arrived and took him into custody.
Suspect admits offence, victim presses charges
Police said the man admitted to stealing the phone when confronted with the evidence, claiming it was his first offence and that he needed money for New Year expenses.
He apologised and pleaded with the victim not to pursue legal action.
Ms Pim, however, insisted on pressing charges, saying she hoped the case would deter him from committing similar acts in the future.
Police seized the stolen phone and the suspect’s fortune-telling equipment and handed him over to investigators for further legal proceedings.
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