CHIANG MAI — Gaze at the lanterns, watch the floats, mind your pocket.
Nine Thai and foreign tourists said they were pickpocketed of cash and cellphones with a combined worth of over 100,000 baht in Chiang Mai Tuesday night during the Yi Peng festival at the popular Thapae Gate.
Four suspects have been identified, Chiang Mai city police chief Col. Veerayuth Prasopchokchai said, from security footage taken around the affected areas, including Thapae, Rob Kumuang Road and the Three Kings Monument.
The increase in tourism during the festivals are an attractive target for thieves, regional police chief Maj. Gen. Pacha Rattanapan said.
Pacha said he also coordinated with other Loy Krathong-related sectors to warn visitors to beware of pickpockets.
