Shocking CCTV footage has emerged capturing the moment a gang of British tourists in Thailand violently ambushed a US lawyer, ramming his motorcycle before holding him at gunpoint and stealing his luxury watch.
The brazen daylight attack occurred on a busy road in the popular tourist destination of Phuket. The victim, 38-year-old American lawyer Matthew Lively, was thrown from his bike after the assailants deliberately crashed into him.
A Terrifying Ordeal in Paradise
As Mr Lively lay stunned on the asphalt, one of the gang members approached him, brandishing a black pistol. The thief then forcibly removed the lawyer's prized Richard Mille timepiece, valued at an astonishing £12,000, from his wrist.
The entire violent episode, which unfolded in mere seconds, was captured on a local business's security camera. The footage shows the calculated nature of the attack, with the assailants appearing to specifically target the high-value watch.
International Investigation Launched
Thai police have confirmed they are treating this as a serious organised crime incident. Investigators believe the gang of British nationals had been specifically targeting wealthy-looking tourists wearing expensive jewellery.
"This was a violent robbery by a foreign gang targeting another foreigner," stated Police Colonel Itthipol Itthanon. "We are coordinating with international authorities to identify and apprehend these dangerous individuals."
The incident has sent shockwaves through the expat and tourist communities in Phuket, raising concerns about targeted crime against visitors. Local authorities have increased patrols in popular tourist areas following the attack.
Mr Lively, who suffered minor injuries from being thrown from his motorcycle, is reportedly cooperating with Thai authorities and has provided a detailed statement to police.
