A Dutch tourist was allegedly harassed by Pakistani scammers peddling overpriced hair loss cures in Thailand.
The male holidaymaker, reportedly a media personality in the Netherlands, claimed the gang approached him at a restaurant in Bangkok to sell a herbal hair loss powder worth 25,000 baht (650 Euros) on July 5.
He was allegedly pressured into withdrawing money from an ATM and buying the product.
After recounting the incident to a Dutch friend, the tourist was told he had been scammed and immediately sought a refund.
The seller later returned the money in full but became angry and called several Pakistani associates, who reportedly followed the tourist to his hotel in the Sukhumvit area, where they verbally abused and intimidated him.
Fearing for his safety, the Dutch tourist called the police. However, the men were already gone when they arrived.
A resident, who recorded a video of the alleged harassment, claimed the group regularly targeted tourists by pointing out thinning hair or bulging bellies, before offering overpriced 'magic' remedies.
If a tourist showed interest, they were taken to the gang's store, where they were offered the treatments while several 'bouncers' stood outside as an intimidation tactic.
The footage was handed to police as evidence to determine whether the group's actions constituted a criminal offence.
The Dutchman has declined to file a formal report as he had already obtained a full refund.
Thai police have been cracking down on Pakistani scam gangs accused of targeting foreign tourists in Pattaya with bogus herbal cures.
Authorities say legal loopholes have made the operations difficult to prosecute despite numerous complaints from tourists.
In many previous cases, disputes reportedly ended with partial refunds negotiated between the parties rather than criminal prosecutions, allowing the businesses to continue operating.
Experienced news editor with a strong background in editorial planning, content review, headline writing, and fact-checking. Skilled in managing news coverage, ensuring accuracy, maintaining editorial standards, and delivering timely, engaging stories across digital platforms.
All Rights Reserved © 2026
