Two Iranian nationals were arrested in a Pathum Wan mall on Thursday after trying to run off with US$1,600 they “asked to see” from an Indian man.
Mall security was called on Thursday evening after Mostafa Salimishorjeh, 41, and Marzieh Pahangeh, 36, were seen fleeing with US currency belonging to another tourist.
Police reported on Friday morning that they arrived at Siam Paragon to find the couple with US$1,600 USD in cash, worth about 52,480 baht, and a large satchel.
The two Iranians were seen acting suspiciously upon arrival at the department store and were under scrutiny by guards, police said.
The couple were said to have been asking other foreigners to see their dollar bills.
They ultimately attempted to escape with the cash of a 46-year-old man, identified as an Indian national. The victim said he found the sum missing after handing over his money in response to their request.
Despite being quickly stopped by security, the two initially denied the claims against them.
Nonetheless, police charged them with theft, and they were held at Pathum Wan station for legal action.