The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), has dismantled a criminal network involved in the illegal sale of “pawned vehicles” and other unlawfully obtained automobiles. The operation, conducted across multiple provinces, resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the seizure of 83 items, including vehicles and other related equipment, valued at over 5 million baht.

 

The operation was overseen by senior CIB officers, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridet, and carried out by a team led by Pol. Col. Ekkasit Pansita. The investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in reselling stolen, embezzled, or pawned vehicles without the consent of the rightful owners. These vehicles were advertised at significantly lower prices on social media, making them attractive to potential buyers. Authorities believe the cars may have also been used in other criminal activities.

 

The suspects arrested include:

 

1. Mr. Saichon, 42, the operator of a Facebook page advertising illegal vehicle sales.

2. Mr. Suradech, 36, another operator of a similar page.

3. Ms. Kanta, 41, who handled vehicle pledging.

4. Mr. Winai, 49, responsible for delivering vehicles to buyers.

5. Mr. Bunyarit, 34, who liaised with foreign buyers, particularly Chinese clients.

6. Ms. Punyiwadee, 32, who facilitated vehicle rentals through the illegal network.

 

During the raids, which took place in Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Phetchabun, and Chiang Rai, police seized a range of evidence, including:

 

• 3 cars and 1 motorcycle.

• 28 license plates.

• Vehicle registration documents and dismantled car parts bearing identification numbers.

• GPS tracking devices.

 

In total, 83 items were confiscated. Police suspect that many more vehicles from the network remain in circulation and are continuing their investigation to locate them.

 

The investigation began when police discovered the Facebook pages operated by Mr. Saichon and Mr. Suradech, advertising unlawfully obtained vehicles for sale. Further inquiries revealed the involvement of other individuals within the network, including those who pledged vehicles, transported them, and facilitated sales. Arrest warrants were issued for all six suspects, and the Special Operations Unit was called in to assist with the arrests.

 

The suspects face charges of receiving stolen property for commercial purposes. Additionally, police are expanding their investigation to trace other illegally sold vehicles and to identify potential links to organised crime.

 

This operation highlights law enforcement’s commitment to cracking down on illegal vehicle trading and ensuring public safety.

 

Picture courtesy of CIB

-- 2024-11-24

 

Good job.

Why do reporters feel the need to identify senior officers who only supervise these operations? Is it part of the preening process?

 

Western journalists rarely do this fan boy stuff, preferring to concentrate on the facts of the operation, like the significant recovery of four vehicles over four provinces!