A bungling thief suffered instant karma when he attacked a pump attendant - only to crash seconds later.

Itsara Sakuket, 40, pulled up on a stolen motorbike as he posed as a regular customer filling up with fuel on January 25.

But once his tank was topped up, he suddenly threatened the terrified worker, Pimthip Jaisamut, 38, and told her to hand over her bag full of cash.

CCTV footage shows the suspect yanking Pimthip's hijab off her head, scattering banknotes worth hundreds of dollars across the ground as her bag tore open.

As the terrified woman fled into the office, Itsara scooped up a fistful of money and fled on the two-wheeler.

However, his escape was short-lived as he immediately smashed into an oncoming motorcycle while riding against the flow of traffic.

Police arrived at the scene in Satun, southern Thailand, at 4 pm local time, where they found Itsara still clutching the crumpled bills in one hand. He suffered a mangled right leg and was rushed to Tha Phae Hospital for treatment.

Police Captain Nukul Jitpetch said: ‘After the alleged victim filed a complaint, officers gathered evidence and informed the suspect of all relevant charges in accordance with legal procedures.

‘We are currently conducting further interrogation and proceeding with strict legal action to build confidence in safety among locals.'

Recounting the incident, Pimthip said she was confused when the suspect suddenly approached her after refuelling.

She said: 'Everything was all settled, but he suddenly walked towards me and I understood that he wanted the money.

'He came and grabbed my bag, then I tried to snatch it back a little. When I pulled back, the bag was torn, and the money was scattered everywhere. Then, I ran away, and he picked it up. He grabbed the money and drove away, but he didn't make it very far.'

Investigators said Itsara had stolen the motorcycle from local reporter Sombat Charoenkwan, 52, who had left it in front of his home with the keys still in the ignition.

The owner said: 'When I found out it was used to commit a crime, I was shocked, but luckily, I retrieved it, even if it's damaged. I want to warn everyone about property security, including valuable assets like motorcycles. Even if you're right in front of your house, it could still be stolen.'

Background checks found that Itsara was previously convicted in Trang, his home province, for drug-related charges.

Police said he will be prosecuted once he has recovered from his injuries.