Ethereum Devcon Attendee Robbed in Bangkok: A Warning for Conference Goers

Rooch Network co-founder Haichao Zhu was robbed at knifepoint in Bangkok just days before the highly anticipated Ethereum Devcon conference. The incident has raised alarms about safety for attendees traveling to the event, scheduled for November 12-15 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Key Takeaways

• Haichao Zhu was attacked at 4:30 AM after arriving on a late-night flight.

• The assailants stole his phone, leaving him with minor injuries.

• Zhu urged fellow attendees to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone at night.

• This incident is part of a troubling trend of robberies targeting crypto conference attendees.

Incident Details

The robbery occurred shortly after Zhu's arrival in Bangkok, highlighting the risks faced by travelers in the city. Zhu reported that two assailants confronted him with a knife, demanding his belongings. Although he was not seriously injured, the emotional impact of the incident was significant.

In a public message, Zhu expressed his disappointment with the local police response, stating that he spent the night at the police station without any resolution. He emphasized the importance of vigilance, particularly for those attending the upcoming Devcon event.

Growing Security Concerns

This incident is not an isolated case. A pattern of violent attacks has emerged at cryptocurrency conferences, with similar incidents reported during the Ethereum Community Conference (EthCC) in Brussels earlier this year. Attendees have faced threats ranging from muggings to more severe confrontations involving weapons.

• Recent Incidents Include:An attendee at EthCC had a gun pointed at them during a robbery.Another individual reported being attacked and sustaining injuries while defending themselves.

Advice for Attendees

In light of these events, attendees of the Ethereum Devcon are advised to take extra precautions:

1. Avoid Traveling Alone: Stick with a group, especially during late hours.

2. Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be mindful of your environment and avoid distractions like using your phone while walking.

3. Choose Safe Routes: Opt for well-lit and populated areas when moving around the city.

4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual, contact local authorities immediately.

Conclusion

As the Ethereum community prepares for Devcon 7, the recent robbery serves as a stark reminder of the importance of personal safety. With thousands of developers and industry leaders expected to attend, it is crucial for participants to remain vigilant and prioritize their security. The cryptocurrency community is rallying together to share safety tips and encourage a culture of caution among attendees, ensuring that the focus remains on innovation and collaboration rather than fear of crime.

Sources

• Ethereum Devcon Attendee Robbed at Knifepoint in Thailand - Decrypt, Decrypt.

• Rooch network co-founder robbed in Bangkok ahead of Ethereum Devcon, crypto.news.

• Rooch Network Founder Mugged Just Days Before Major Ethereum Conference in Bangkok | CCN.com, CCN.com.

• Crypto Executive Robbed Before Major Ethereum Conference in Thailand, Blockonomi.