Four alleged members of a Pakistani money exchange scam gang were arrested for trying to trick shop owners in Thailand.

The men, later identified as Muhammad Ramzan, 35, Muhammad Saleem, 34, Amir Hussain, 24, and Muhammad Imran, 21, tried to buy beer and paid 1,000 baht (22 GBP) but told the storekeeper they changed their minds in Buriram, Thailand, on November 26.

They had already received their change but tried to confuse the worker by speaking in different languages, including English, demanding the 1,000 baht (22 GBP) banknote their companion had given before.

CCTV footage shows the first Pakistani receiving his change. They then together asked the storekeeper for the money, prompting the investigation.

Buriram Provincial Police's Investigation Division superintendent Police Colonel Yuthapong Rodnual said: 'We found them outside a bank. We started the pursuit when the storekeeper reported about a new scam.'

The storekeeper said: 'After receiving their change, they would change their mind, speaking confusingly and switching between English and their native language.

'When receiving their money back, they would act like they were still waiting for change, even though it had already been returned.

'I realised their plan and pointed to the CCTV. I told them to pay for the beer or leave the store.'

The group was also being investigated for another case where Pakistani men allegedly rented a car which was used for a crime.

The said Toyota sedan was seized, and they were taken to the police station.

During questioning, the Pakistani group denied allegations but eventually surrendered when the security footage was shown.

Police said they admitted to doing similar modus in several provinces.

The superintendent added: 'They split work and scam people like they perform magic tricks. The shopkeepers are confused. They get around 950 baht (20.90 GBP) from each store, as well as stolen products.

'Each day, they trick at least five stores. They usually targeted elderly shopkeepers. We have charged them with theft.'

Under Thai laws, the penalty for theft varies depending on the value of the stolen property. It can range from up to three years in prison for petty crimes or ten years for robbery if it involves the use of force.

(1 THB=0.02 GBP)