Former Security Guard Arrested for 10-Year, ฿10m Factory Thefts

Picture courtesy of Daily News.

Police have arrested a former security guard accused of masterminding a decade-long scheme to steal steel from a factory where he once worked, causing losses of nearly ฿10 million.

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) announced the arrest of Mr Saneei, 56, who was wanted on a Nathawee Provincial Court warrant issued on 9 January for theft from an employer, using a vehicle to transport stolen goods, and receiving stolen property.

A team from the Crime Suppression Division, led by Pol Lt Col Thanakarn Uchanarassami, tracked him down to a house in Satun province, where he surrendered without resistance despite having been on the run for eight months. He was later transferred to Khlong Ngae Police Station in Songkhla to face charges.

Investigators said Saneei had worked as a security guard at a factory in Sadao district for years but had secretly allowed associates to enter the premises and load stolen steel onto pickup trucks. The goods were then sold off, with profits split among the group. Each theft reportedly netted tens of thousands of baht.

Police believe the thefts went on for up to 10 years, with the total losses to the factory estimated at over ฿10 million.

During questioning, Saneei allegedly admitted his role, claiming financial desperation forced him into the crime. He said he had mounting debts with loan sharks, gambling losses, school fees for two children and a mortgage to pay, leading him to organise the thefts.

The factory eventually uncovered the scheme and filed a police complaint, prompting the arrest warrant and his eventual capture.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-09-05