A 28-year-old Indian tourist has filed a police complaint in Pattaya, Thailand, after allegedly being massively overcharged for a herbal product. He claims his credit card was debited 27,600 baht (approximately ₹78,108) for an item he was told would cost only 380 baht (approximately ₹1,075).
The Incident on Pattaya 2nd Road
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. on October 28, 2026, when the tourist was walking on Pattaya 2nd Road. He reported being approached by a man, believed to be Pakistani, who offered him a herbal product. After agreeing to the much lower stated price, the tourist later discovered the significant discrepancy on his credit card statement.
Upon filing a formal report with Pattaya City Police, an unusual development occurred: someone linked to the sellers quickly contacted the tourist, offering a full refund in exchange for the product's return. This rapid offer of restitution has raised questions among investigators regarding the sellers' awareness of the police report and their business practices.
Recurring 'Miracle Herb' Scams
This complaint highlights a persistent issue in Pattaya's tourist areas, particularly along Pattaya Beach Road and Pattaya 2nd Road. There have been numerous reports of foreign touts aggressively selling overpriced “miracle herb” products, often making unsubstantiated health claims.
Previous Cases and Investigations
- January 2026: A 45-year-old Indian tourist reported paying 43,400 baht after a similar encounter near Soi Marine Plaza.
- September 2026: A Sri Lankan tourist experienced an identical overcharge at a related establishment.
- Ongoing Concerns: Immigration authorities have previously arrested Pakistani men acting as intermediaries in these networks, including a June 2026 case at a newly opened shop on Pattaya 2nd Road.
The complaints also draw attention to the legal status of these foreign nationals operating businesses in tourist zones, specifically regarding their work permits and business licenses.
Advice for Tourists
Authorities consistently advise visitors to exercise caution when approached with unsolicited offers, especially for herbal products claiming to cure ailments like baldness or aid in weight loss. Tourists are urged to:
- Always confirm the exact price before agreeing to a purchase.
- Carefully verify the payment amount before completing any transaction, particularly when using credit cards.
The latest complaint remains under active police investigation. Officials emphasize that any private settlement or refund should not deter a thorough examination of the sales practices involved and the legal standing of those conducting these transactions.