Amid the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife of Pattaya, a tale unravels that could be ripped straight from a gripping crime thriller. On June 26, 2025, Russian journalist David, a spry 26-year-old with an eye for a good story, found himself in the midst of one more dangerous than he could ever have penned. An alleged escape artist act? Perhaps, but the reality was far darker. Picture this: a labyrinthine hotel on Jomtien Soi 14, handcuffs clattering in pursuit of an elusive freedom. David had been attacked by compatriots, fellow Russians, under the sinister cover of a black bag that obscured more than just his vision. The attackers, cloaked in malice and pulsing adrenaline, were not just content with a simple assault. Oh no, they went the extra mile, ensuring the threat lingered across borders by sending a menacing video straight to David’s girlfriend. Their final demands were unmerciful: a…