Scam warning in Patong, Phuket (Near Jungceylon / Bangla Area)
Just wanted to make people aware of an ongoing scam in Patong, Phuket, because I experienced almost the exact same thing that others have posted about before. Couple of Pakistani(not surprised why they are great at it) guys are running quite a sophisticated scam involving a local herbal shop, Thai local people.
A guy who introduced himself as “Sunny”, claimed he is originally from India, currently settled in Dubai and travelling in Thailand, approached me acting very friendly and conversational. He started with casual talk, asking where I’m from, how long I’m staying in Thailand, etc. Then he moved onto health topics and started talking about special honey + herbs / natural remedies, saying someone in his family had amazing results from using them.
The conversation felt oddly rehearsed and very familiar - almost like he was trying to gain trust quickly. He tried directing me towards herbal products and health shops around the Patong area.
At first, I brushed it off. However, things escalated. I had two separate encounters with this same person. During one of them, while I was walking near Jungceylon Shopping Centre.
The next morning, I spotted him again - this time with a local Thai woman who appears to be working with him. I managed to take photos of both of them. I also witnessed them exchanging what looked like a large amount of cash, which honestly made the whole situation feel even more suspicious and organised.
I also took a photo of the scammer himself. He presents himself as friendly, well-spoken, and claims to be from Dubai, but based on everything I experienced, I strongly doubt that story is genuine.
This post is simply to warn tourists and locals in Patong, especially around Jungceylon, Bangla Road, and nearby areas, to be cautious if someone randomly approaches you with:
“I’m from Dubai” stories
Health/herbal remedy conversations
Honey + herbs recommendations
Questions about how long you’re staying in Phuket
Attempts to guide you to a “trusted” herbal/health shop
It starts off feeling like friendly small talk, but something feels very off very quickly.
Has anyone else had a similar experience with this guy or scam in Patong / Phuket recently?
Stay safe and trust your gut - if a random stranger seems overly friendly and starts steering the conversation toward products or shops, just walk away.