Gushiken Yona
A chilling incident in Bangkok casts a shadow over the upcoming Ethereum Devcon, highlighting the vulnerability of even seasoned crypto professionals to street crime.
Haichao, the co-founder of Rooch Network, found himself face-to-face with knife-wielding robbers in the early hours of the morning Monday, losing his phone in the terrifying encounter. His experience is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety precautions, particularly for those traveling to unfamiliar cities.
Haichao’s ordeal began upon his arrival in Bangkok. His flight landed at 3 a.m., and a miscommunication with his taxi driver led to him being dropped off at the wrong location. Forced to navigate unfamiliar streets at 4:30 a.m., while dragging his luggage and consulting Google Maps, he became a target.
Two men on a motorcycle approached him, one brandishing a knife. In the ensuing struggle, Haichao’s phone was snatched. Though physically unharmed, save for a small cut from the knife, the experience left him shaken.
He later recounted the incident in detail on X (formerly Twitter). He emphasized he believes he was a random victim and wasn’t targeted specifically for being involved in crypto. He wasn’t wearing any crypto swag or Bitcoin logos.
He shared his experience not to spread fear, but to warn fellow travelers, especially those attending Devcon and related events. “Please be careful not to go out alone at midnight,” he cautioned.
Haichao further said that while Bangkok is generally safe, vigilance is crucial, especially in the darkness. He detailed the incident, offering specific advice: double-check locations on maps, avoid walking alone late at night, and have a backup plan in case of phone loss.
He also praised the helpfulness of a young bystander and the police, though noted initial confusion among officers regarding the nature of the crime. Unfortunately, Haichao’s experience is not an isolated incident.
Criminals increasingly see cryptocurrency holders as lucrative targets. Just last month, Thai police busted a crypto heist involving over $620,000 stolen from a local woman through a Facebook scam.
Even more disturbing, a group of Thai police officers allegedly held a Chinese businessman hostage, demanding a $10 million cryptocurrency ransom. The officers used fabricated charges and threats of imprisonment, shaking public trust in law enforcement.
As the Ethereum community descends upon Bangkok for Devcon, Haichao’s experience serves as a timely reminder. While the city offers a vibrant culture and exciting events, attendees must prioritize personal safety.
Staying aware of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and securing personal belongings are crucial precautions. The convergence of thousands of crypto enthusiasts for Devcon makes it an especially attractive target for potential criminals, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance.
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Yona has no crypto positions and does not hold any crypto assets. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Daily is an official media and publication of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
