‘Well played’: Suspected thief is hit with instant karma

A photographer has won praise on social media after using martial arts to stop a suspected thief. But some say he went too far.

A Chinese tourist in Barcelona has gone viral after he used martial arts to heroically stop a suspected thief who tried to steal his camera.

Footage from the streets of Barcelona, shows the suspected thief wailing and gasping for air as the tourist grappled him, holding him across his neck.

The suspect could be seen thrashing against the tourist and pleading for help from passer-bys, who were unmoved by his plight.

One onlooker tells the suspected thief, “You are going to hurt yourself,” as he continues to attempt to free himself from the hold.

After some time, police officers can be seen taking custody of the thief and sitting him up against a tree as he goes limp.

The suspected thief wails and gasps for air as the tourist holds him around the neck. Picture: X/orikron

The suspect could be heard pleading for help from unmoved onlookers. Picture: X/orikron

Witnesses were then heard applauding the tourist and police with many shouting, “Bravo”.

The martial arts move, known as a neck choke hold, restricts airflow or blood flow to the brain and is often used in self-defence. It can cause temporary unconsciousness or even death.

Gathering over 16 million views online, people were quick to praise the “heroic” tourist.

“Well played, sir,” said one impressed viewer.

“Good for him to teach that guy a lesson,” said another.

“He came for the camera, but left with a free Kung Fu demo,” joked a third.

However, some were unimpressed with the extent of force used on the suspected thief.

“He went too damn far. Was he trying to kill the man?,” said one concerned viewer.

“If the Police are not allowed to do it, I don’t think you can,” said another.

He allegedly attempted to steal a man's camera. Picture: X/orikron

Police officers can be seen taking custody of the thief. Picture: X/orikron

Barcelona has become notorious for its high theft rates. The city recorded 180,342 crimes in 2024, nearly half of which were thefts.

Just last year, Sir Ben Ainslie was robbed of his Rolex watch at knifepoint in Barcelona, ahead of qualification races for the America’s Cup, the BBC reported.

The most successful Olympic sailor of all time was threatened with a knife by a group who took his Rolex, worth €20,000 ($35,000 AUD).

Sir Ben told the BBC at the time that it was “now a matter with the local authorities.”

Smart Traveller warns tourists to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid being a victim of theft when travelling in Barcelona.

“Keep valuable items secure, particularly on public transport and in crowded areas. Carry valuables in front pockets, avoid back pockets, and keep bags closed and close to you.”