Police Detain Another Navy Suspect in Gun Probe

Thai police have detained another suspect linked to an expanding investigation into military-grade weapons allegedly sold to a Chinese national in Chon Buri province, while forensic teams intensify analysis of explosives and firearms seized during raids connected to the case. Investigators confirmed that a suspect, identified only as “Sergeant Boy”, accused of sourcing weapons for the Chinese suspect, was brought in for questioning at Na Jomtien Police Station on May 10. Authorities are also pursuing another military-linked suspect known as “Sergeant Haeb” as the inquiry widens.

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The investigation began after police arrested Mingchen Sun, a 31-year-old Chinese national, following a car crash in the Na Jomtien area of Chon Buri. During an inspection of the overturned vehicle, officers discovered firearms and magazines, leading to further searches at a house in Huai Yai where police seized military weapons, high-explosive devices, anti-personnel explosives and grenade-type devices, totalling 10 explosive items.

Investigators also confiscated bomb-making components and large quantities of fuel from the property. The suspect was later transferred to Pattaya Immigration Office after prolonged questioning. Police said he appeared physically exhausted and required regular medication throughout detention.

On the morning of May 10, explosive ordnance specialists from the Office of Police Forensic Science travelled to Na Jomtien Police Station to conduct detailed examinations of the seized firearms, ammunition and explosives. Officers are focusing on tracing the origins of the weapons and determining whether additional explosive materials remain unaccounted for.

Police teams have meanwhile travelled to Sattahip to locate two navy personnel suspected of involvement in supplying firearms. The operation follows the earlier questioning of shooting instructor Mr Chen, Petty Officer First Class Methee of the Royal Thai Navy and 51-year-old Chamlong, identified as the owner of a bank account allegedly used during the transactions and as the person who delivered weapons to the Chinese suspect.

Investigators outlined an alleged weapons procurement chain in which Mr Chen contacted Petty Officer Methee to source firearms for interested Chinese buyers. Methee allegedly contacted Sergeant Haeb, who then coordinated with Sergeant Boy to obtain the guns. Chamlong is alleged to have allowed his bank account to be used for transfers linked to the sales.

Separately, immigration officials revoked the visa of a Taiwanese woman who was travelling with suspect at the time of the crash. Police said questioning had not yet established whether she had any involvement in the weapons case, but she has been detained pending further investigation.

Khaosod reported that the case has also prompted scrutiny within the Royal Thai Police after investigators discovered that some seized firearms were registered to Metropolitan Police Bureau officers. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom has appointed a six-member fact-finding committee to investigate whether serving officers were connected to the weapons recovered from properties linked to the suspect. Authorities said the committee had been instructed to report findings urgently.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 10 May 2026