Thief Caught After Motorcycle Robbery, Crashes in Attempted Escape

Picture of arrest

A 25-year-old man was swiftly arrested on December 30, after attempting to steal a woman’s handbag in Bangkok. The thief, identified as Nattawut, failed to get far after his motorcycle collided with a passing vehicle, causing him to fall and injure himself.

The incident occurred at 13:15 near the entrance to Soi Phaholyothin 61, in the district of Bang Khen. According to the victim, she was unlocking her bicycle parked under a pedestrian bridge when the suspect, riding a blue Honda Wave motorcycle, suddenly snatched her handbag.

Nattawut quickly tried to escape with the bag, but collided with another motorcycle, losing control and crashing. He sustained head injuries and was left bleeding on the ground before being apprehended by officers and bystanders.

During questioning, Nattawut admitted to snatching the handbag after spotting the victim at the bicycle rack. He said he believed she was carrying a large sum of money due to the bag’s appearance.

The victim, a woman who had been parked at the location to buy something, recalled that she had locked her bicycle under the bridge before returning to unlock it. She was caught off guard when the thief approached from behind and snatched her bag. She struggled to regain control of the bag, but the thief overpowered her.

She added that after the suspect fled, he was struck by an oncoming motorcycle and fell, allowing for his capture. The victim later explained that she had been a victim of a similar robbery years ago in the same area, and although she gave up her bag that time, she advised others, especially women travelling alone, to remain vigilant.

Authorities are continuing to question Nattawut and are examining his criminal history to determine if he has committed similar offences in the past. He is currently facing charges of robbery and will be processed by the Bang Khen Police for further legal proceedings.

-- 2024-12-31