An Israeli man was captured by local residents and handed over to police after a dramatic chase through the streets of Pattaya early Friday morning. The incident began when the 34-year-old foreigner, identified only as Mr. B., allegedly stole donation envelopes intended for a Buddhist temple from a massage parlor counter.

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The altercation originated at a local massage establishment where Mr. B. had just received a traditional Thai massage. Following the completed service, which cost 300 baht, the man reportedly demanded a refund. When the masseuse, a woman named Noi, refused his request, he suddenly seized several donation envelopes from the counter and fled the premises. The collected funds were destined for Wat Tham Pha Thong in Phetchabun Province.

Villagers Swarm to Catch Israeli Man Who Stole Temple Donation Envelopes After Being Denied Refund for 1-Hour Massage

​At 02:00 AM on October 17, Pattaya Police received a report from motorcycle taxi drivers near Soi 6 Pattaya Sai 2, who were helping to chase a thief who stole… pic.twitter.com/KIiPgBkRYU

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) October 17, 2025

A swift pursuit ensued through the busy entertainment district, with passersby and local motorcycle taxi drivers quickly joining the effort to apprehend the fleeing suspect. The chase concluded on Soi 5 of Pattaya Beach Road, where the motorcycle taxi drivers successfully restrained Mr. B. until police officers arrived on the scene. Upon his apprehension, officers located the stolen donation envelopes concealed within his trouser pocket. Authorities expressed their surprise that a foreign national would be involved in the theft of religious offerings.

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During preliminary questioning, the Israeli national claimed he was unaware of the envelopes’ contents, stating that his actions were driven by frustration over the denied refund. Law enforcement officials, however, have indicated skepticism regarding this explanation. Mr. B. remains in custody for further interrogation as the investigation continues. He now faces pending criminal charges and will be formally handed over to public prosecutors for legal proceedings.

-Thailand News (TN)