Briton Accused of Stealing Thai Tourist’s Bag From Temple

BANGKOK — A Briton who was filmed stealing from a Thai tourist in Chiang Mai was arrested Thursday at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Stephen Antonio (transcribed from Thai) denied the allegations, though police said they have evidence he committed the crime at Doi Suthep temple on Wednesday, including security camera footage.

“He has the right to deny the charge, but we have enough evidence to implicate him,” Col. Pitipong Boonpiam, chief of Phuping Ratchaniwet Police Station, said by telephone Friday.

According to Pitipong, the suspect took more than 100,000 baht worth of items and cash from a backpack that belonged to a Thai tourist at the temple.

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In video said to be from inside the temple, a man identified as Antonio is seen looking furtively around as he moves to an unattended bag which he then takes.

Tourist Police said they apprehended Antonio as he arrived at the airport in Bangkok yesterday, presumably to board his flight home. He was later taken to be held at Phuping Ratchaniwet Police Station.

The British embassy said it will send a representative to be present during during police questioning of Antonio, Pitipong said.