French tourist, 24, arrested for 'stealing motorbike' in southern Thailand

A French tourist was arrested in southern Thailand after allegedly stealing a local resident's motorbike in Krabi. Sahim Ibrahim, 24, allegedly jumped onto the red-and-white Vespa while its owners were distracted before riding off along Utarakit Road in Krabi, on October 30. The married couple had just returned home at around 11 pm local time, and had parked their motorcycle with the key still in the engine. But when they turned away briefly to open their gate, the Frenchman allegedly climbed onto the bike and sped away. The couple tried to chase after him but failed to catch up before reporting the theft to Mueang Krabi Police Station. Officers launched a search along the suspected escape route. Around 20 minutes later, they spotted Sahim riding the stolen Vespa outside Krabi Hospital. He was intercepted and arrested before being questioned about the alleged theft. Footage shows him appearing to speak to himself and making faces while being grilled by police. Sahim allegedly claimed he had 'gotten on the wrong bike' and told officers he was staying at a hotel in Ao Nang, in Krabi's Mueang district. Police Lieutenant Colonel Suthiwat Aunsiam said investigators were not convinced by his explanation. He added: 'The suspect Sahim Ibrahim exhibited symptoms similar to a person who had consumed drugs. ‘We handed him over, along with the seized motorcycle, to the inquiry officer for further legal action on a charge of snatching.' Thailand's economy relies heavily on tourism, though numbers are yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Tourism is believed to account for up to 20 per cent of GDP, with revenue touching everything from cars and airlines to hotels and hospitals. But in response to an influx of rowdy tourists, in May, the government slashed its visa-free stay for eligible foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days. Officials said the tighter rule is meant to curb crimes committed by foreign nationals.