World · Singapore Bureau
Two transgender women arrested over luxury watch theft in Pattaya
Thai police have arrested two transgender women aged 30 and 24 in connection with the alleged theft of a S$765,000 Patek Philippe timepiece from a Chinese tourist in the coastal resort city of Pattaya.
LSN Singapore ·
The high-value watch disappeared during an encounter between the tourist and the two suspects in Pattaya, a popular destination for visitors from across Asia. The Patek Philippe model is among the world's most sought-after luxury watches, with prices often exceeding S$700,000 depending on rarity and condition.
Local authorities launched an investigation following a report from the Chinese national, who stated the watch went missing under circumstances the suspects are now accused of orchestrating. Police have identified the two women, aged 30 and 24, as persons of interest in the case.
The arrest represents part of ongoing law enforcement efforts to curb organised theft targeting wealthy tourists in Thailand's beach resort areas. Pattaya has long been a focal point for such incidents, prompting increased vigilance by authorities during peak tourist seasons.
Investigations into the alleged theft are continuing. Thai police have not yet disclosed whether the stolen watch has been recovered or details regarding the circumstances of its disappearance.