Thai woman forgives ATM theft after suspect found to be mentally ill and struggling

A woman in Thailand has decided not to press charges after a teenager snatched cash from her at an ATM in Buriram province, with police later learning the suspect was receiving treatment for mental illness and living in hardship.

The incident took place in Prakhonchai district, where the victim, identified as Yuad, had withdrawn money before it was taken from her.

Cash taken at ATM

According to police, Yuad had gone to an ATM outside a local bank when the suspect, named Nuch, approached from behind.

After Yuad completed the transaction and took the money, Nuch grabbed the cash and refused to return it.

Yuad attempted to retrieve the money but was unsuccessful. Nuch’s mother, who was present, also tried to persuade her daughter to give it back.

When those efforts failed, Yuad contacted officers from Prakhonchai Police Station.

Police intervention and recovery

Police said they arrived to find Nuch still holding the cash tightly while standing near the victim.

All three individuals were taken to the police station, where officers continued to ask the teenager to return the money.

Authorities said a struggle occurred when officers and the victim tried to recover the banknotes. The cash was eventually retrieved, although some of it was damaged during the incident.

Family cites illness and hardship

Nuch’s mother told police her daughter had been undergoing treatment for a mental health condition and was taking medication.

She said the situation may have been influenced by heat and hunger, explaining that they had been on their way to a temple to seek food and water before the incident took place.

Victim declines to press charges

After hearing the explanation, Yuad said she did not wish to pursue legal action.

Police said she had already received her money back and expressed sympathy for the teenager’s situation.

Medical assessment underway

Authorities confirmed that Nuch was taken to hospital for examination to assess her mental condition.

Police said that if a medical evaluation confirms she is suffering from mental illness, she is likely to be released without charge.

The case highlights how personal circumstances, including health and poverty, can influence the handling of minor offences.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 31 Mar 2026