The abduction of Malaysian pastor Raymond Koh Keng Joo happened in just under a minute. Footage of a viral video, supposedly of the abduction, showed at least seven vehicles - including two motorcycles - were involved in the operation.
Police have stepped up security measures on Koh Samui island in preparation for the Songkran festival, when large number of travelers are expected to visit the popular island in the Gulf of Thailand.
The Thai military junta on Sunday announced to lift the curfew in Koh Chang of Trat province, Hat Yai of Songkhla province and Koh Pangan of Surat Thani province, all popular tourist destinations.