Electrical Wire Theft Gang Arrested in Bangkok, Faces Multiple Charges

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

Three individuals involved in a spate of electrical wire thefts have been apprehended following a tip-off from the Metropolitan Electricity Authority. The thefts, which caused serious infrastructural damage, were captured on CCTV and resulted in two suspects being injured by an electric shock.

Police at Bang Khun Thian Station announced the arrest of Chaichana (also known as Tong), Kittisak (or Bank), and Chakrit (or Ball). During the arrest at Bang Bon Housing, several items were confiscated, including a red Yamaha Lead 125 motorcycle, 35 cut electrical wires, and 1.1 grammes of crystal methamphetamine found on Chaichana.

The investigation began after Wichian Jeenkow reported the theft of 60 metres of medium-voltage cable near a seafood buffet on May 5, causing damage worth over 500,000 baht. Further investigations revealed the gang's involvement in multiple thefts and drug activities in the Bang Bon area. Three suspects were detained, with others still at large.

The gang admitted to several thefts, including one on May 3 and another between May 10 and 11, where they stole 12 metres of wire. A theft attempt on May 8 resulted in electric shocks to two members, causing damage estimated at 1.5 million baht. Additionally, the suspects confessed to using crystal methamphetamine.

Police Major General Khomsit Rangsai urged the arrested individuals to reform in prison and learn a trade for future lawful employment. He also appealed to the public to report suspicious activity, particularly around utility services, which can prevent such costly and dangerous thefts.

The suspects face serious charges, including joint theft of public utility property using a vehicle. Chaichana faces an additional charge of possessing a Category 1 narcotic, while the others face charges related to narcotics use. All three have been handed over to Tha Kham Police Station for further legal proceedings.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-15