Chiang Rai Theft Suspect Escapes by Damaging Police Van Roof

Photo via Channel 8

In an unexpected turn of events, a 25-year-old suspect named Armo Chermue managed to escape from custody in Chiang Rai by damaging and breaking through the roof of a police transport vehicle. The incident occurred on April 9, while Armo was being escorted from Mae Yao Police Station to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for a review of his charges related to a theft case.

Police disclosed that Armo had a previous record of drug dealing and was suspected in a recent theft incident at 5am that same day. Despite this, insufficient evidence directly connecting him to the theft meant there were plans to temporarily release him following an OAG review. However, before the review could take place, Armo seized the opportunity to escape.

According to police reports, Armo managed to break through the vehicle's roof, crawl out, and flee the scene, jumping onto the road. At the time of escape, he was wearing a distinctive white and black striped shirt, patterned shorts with elephants, and still had handcuffs on.

Surveillance footage captured him grinning as he passed a convenience store in the Ban Mai area and entered an alley, making it difficult for police to track his movements due to the many exits the alley offers.

Armo remains at large and now faces additional charges. Beyond the potential repercussions for the initial theft charge, he could receive up to three years in prison, a fine of 60,000 baht, or both under Section 190 of the Criminal Code for escaping custody while detained by legal authorities.

Police efforts continue to locate him, urging anyone with information to come forward, as Armo’s actions have now escalated his legal situation significantly, reported The Thaiger.