A Japanese man was detained by market traders in Phayao after allegedly stealing a motorcycle belonging to a local vendor near Kwan Phayao. The incident drew widespread attention after video footage showing more than six traders restraining the suspect was shared online.
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The incident took place along the lakeside road opposite a Punthai Coffee branch in Wiang subdistrict, Mueang Phayao district. According to police, the suspect allegedly stole a black and blue Honda Wave 110i motorcycle, registration from Phayao, owned by 48-year-old Prapapun Inpanya from Chun district, Phayao province.
Police said the theft was first reported on 13 May to Pol Lt Natthakit Jumduang, an investigating officer at Mueang Phayao Police Station. The motorcycle had reportedly been parked beside the road with the key left in the ignition before it was taken.
Pictures courtesy of Kaoded
CCTV footage later showed a man wearing a short-sleeved shirt, shorts and white sandals walking around the parking area before allegedly taking the motorcycle when the area was quiet. The suspect returned several days later to the same area to retrieve a bicycle that had been left behind.
Traders and the motorcycle owner reportedly recognised the man from the CCTV images and chased him before restraining him in a chaotic scene captured on video. Witnesses could be heard shouting as bystanders gathered around the incident.
Police later identified the suspect as 38-year-old Japanese national Hiloki Kamiyama. Officers said no identification documents were found on him at the time of arrest.
Authorities also seized a red motorcycle for further examination and transferred the suspect to investigators at Mueang Phayao Police Station for legal proceedings. Police have not released further details about charges beyond the alleged motorcycle theft.
Some local residents speculated that the suspect could be linked to scam operations or may have been hiding in the area before allegedly turning to theft after running out of money. However, police said further checks are still under way and no such claims have been confirmed.
Khaosod reported that the case remains under investigation as officers continue to examine the suspect’s background and any possible links to other offences.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Kaoded 18 May 2026