Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Thai police have arrested the suspect behind a high-profile armed gold heist in Mae Sot that took place on 2 March, during which a man disguised as a food delivery rider stole gold jewellery weighing 102 baht valued at over 4.7 million baht.

 

The suspect, identified only as Mr. Somchai, allegedly carried out the robbery at a well-known gold shop inside a shopping centre on Asia Road in Mae Sot district. Dressed in a green delivery rider’s uniform with a camouflage inner shirt and black jeans, the man brandished a handgun, threatening staff before fleeing with three trays of gold ornaments.

 

The theft shocked local residents and gold retailers across the district, prompting a major police operation. Pol Col Rang Daodung, superintendent of Mae Sot Police Station, ordered an intensive investigation. The case also drew national attention, with Pol Gen Thanayut Wutthicharatthamrong, Assistant National Police Chief, travelling to the area to personally oversee the operation.

 

After weeks of surveillance and evidence gathering, police secured an arrest warrant from Mae Sot Provincial Court and apprehended Mr. Somchai. At the time of arrest, police recovered a 20-baht gold chain in a woven pattern and one amulet encased in gold. Authorities believe more of the stolen jewellery remains unaccounted for and suspect additional accomplices.

 

Mr. Somchai has been charged with robbery using disguise or other means to conceal identity, with a firearm, and using a vehicle to commit the offence or aid escape; illegal possession of a firearm; and carrying a firearm in public without permission.

 

Investigations revealed that his wife, Ms. Araya, was also involved in the crime. She allegedly booked a hotel room in Mae Sot on the night of the robbery to provide a hideout for her husband after the heist. She was subsequently arrested and charged with jointly committing armed robbery under similar aggravated circumstances.

 

Although some of the stolen items have been recovered, police believe others may be in possession of further accomplices. Officers are continuing their investigation and interrogating the suspects to trace the remaining gold and uncover the full extent of the criminal operation.

 

Related article.

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1353341-armed-robber-steals-gold-worth-47-million-baht-in-mae-sot/

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-03.

 

 

 

 

 

Why are people with helmets and tinted visors, face masks and sunglasses etc.,  allowed to walk around any mall?