A Russian national has been robbed of US$700 in cash by another man speaking Russian in a hotel room in Phuket on Sunday night. The incident highlights the importance of being vigilant when traveling abroad, especially in tourist hotspots like Phuket.
The Incident
According to Pol Col Khundet Na Nongkhai, Karon station chief, the victim was sleeping in his hotel room in tambon Karon of Muang district when he was awoken about 8pm by someone knocking on the door. The victim answered the door and was subsequently forced into the room by a Russian-speaking foreigner.
The Attack
The intruder punched the victim several times, leaving him on the floor unconscious. The victim claimed that he could not fight back due to recent stomach surgery. The attacker then proceeded to shut the victim’s mouth with tape and bound him with a wire cord. The victim was subsequently put on the phone to another Russian man, who threatened to kill him if he did not return 120,000 cryptodollars.
The Cryptocurrency Connection
It appears that the attack was related to a cryptocurrency business dispute between the victim and the perpetrator in Russia. The attacker demanded that the victim hand over his phone’s password, but the victim refused. As a result, the attacker failed to access the victim’s crypto account, and instead stole all of his cash, approximately $700.
The Aftermath
When the victim regained consciousness hours later, he was alone in the room. The police investigators reviewed hotel security recordings and noted that the suspect was a large man wearing a hoodie and a mask. A wire cord used to tie up the victim was found at the scene.
Investigation Continues
The investigation is ongoing, with police working to apprehend the perpetrator and recover the stolen funds. The incident serves as a reminder for tourists and locals alike to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while traveling.
Safety Tips for Travelers in Phuket
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider using a money belt or secure wallet.
- Keep your valuables safe and secure in your hotel room or use a safe deposit box at the hotel.
- Research local customs and laws to avoid unintended consequences.
- Stay informed about local events and demonstrations that may affect tourist areas.
Cryptocurrency Safety Precautions
- Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts, including cryptocurrency exchanges.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
- Keep your devices and software up-to-date with the latest security patches.
- Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks or unsecured computers to access your crypto accounts.
Conclusion
The attack on the Russian man in Phuket highlights the importance of being vigilant while traveling abroad. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, tourists can minimize their risk of falling victim to crimes like this one. Additionally, cryptocurrency users should be aware of the risks associated with online transactions and take steps to protect themselves.
Sources
- Police investigation report
- Hotel security recordings
- Victim’s testimony
