Thai Tourist Krissana Baowlor Attacked and Robbed in Paris: A Cautionary Tale

In the picturesque city of Paris, often dubbed the “City of Light,” one expects enchanting strolls along the Seine, delicious croissants in cozy cafés, and captivating art at every corner. However, for Krissana “Fai” Baowlor, a recent Thai tourist, the dream quickly turned into a nightmare. Yesterday, on July 16, Krissana’s evening took a dark turn when he was viciously attacked and robbed at a public park near the Westfield Forum des Halles shopping centre. His assailant made off with all his belongings, including a sum of 10,000 baht in cash.

Krissana, determined to warn others about his harrowing ordeal, took to social media, posting photos of his injuries on Facebook. The images bore testimony to the brutal attack—deep scratches marred his face and neck, while bruises decorated his skin like a sinister mosaic. The cuts on his lips told the story of a fierce struggle, and his hands, bloodstained and battered, were evidence of his desperate attempts to stave off his attacker.

As daylight still lingered in the Parisian sky, Krissana described his assailant as a person of colour, appearing erratic and possibly under the influence of drugs. The attacker, displaying alarming strength, launched a surprise assault, shoving Krissana down a staircase. The panic-stricken tourist fought to protect his chest bag, but the confrontation turned more violent as the robber choked him and trampled mercilessly on his vulnerable body. Overwhelmed and incapacitated, Krissana could only watch helplessly as the thief vanished into the throng of people, carrying with him Krissana’s cash, mobile phone, essential documents, and cherished personal items.

In a cautionary note appended to his post, Krissana urged travelers to heed his experience as a somber reminder. “I would like to warn everyone traveling in Paris or other European countries to be extremely careful. Avoid wearing designer clothing or carrying any valuables,” he wrote. “This happened in a crowded public area, even though I was already being very cautious.”

The unsettling incident bears an uncanny resemblance to another high-profile case from June the previous year. Thai social media influencer Paris Sittisarn, known for his car garage business, was similarly victimized while in Frankfurt, Germany. Strolling near St. Paul’s Church, Paris lost his prized Patek Philippe watch, valued at a staggering six million baht. Disguised as a genial passerby, the crafty thief suddenly turned and snatched the watch, leaving Paris bewildered and watchless in the bustling city.

In the wake of these unsettling occurrences, travelers are urged to exercise utmost vigilance. Paris, with its majestic allure, is not exempt from the darker elements lurking amidst its beauty. Yet, Krissana’s story and that of Paris Sittisarn are poignant reminders that even in a city renowned for its romance and history, one must remain aware and cautious.

In the interim, as love-struck tourists and seasoned wanderers alike continue to explore the intricacies of both Paris and Europe at large, let their tales be a beacon of caution. Delight in the magic of travel, but do so with an eye on both the wonder above and the shadows that occasionally dance below.