A Thai doctor recovered 200,000 baht in cash after alerting airport officials to a theft during a domestic flight from Udon Thani to Bangkok. The incident prompted a warning to airline passengers about the risks of storing valuables in overhead luggage compartments. Authorities detained a suspect at the airport shortly after the aircraft landed. Get today's headlines by email Songwut Promtho, also known as “Mor Ta,” from The V-Sage Clinic shared details of the incident online. He said the theft occurred during a one-hour flight from Udon Thani to Bangkok. According to the doctor, he placed his bag in the overhead compartment after boarding, which is common practice for many passengers. During the flight, Dr Songwut noticed a Chinese passenger repeatedly getting up and walking toward the restroom. He said the frequency of the trips appeared unusual during such a short journey. The behaviour made him increasingly cautious about his belongings. When the plane landed in Bangkok, the same passenger reportedly rushed off the aircraft quickly. Dr Songwut said the man’s hurried departure raised his suspicions. Because he had been carrying a large amount of cash from his clinic to deposit at a bank, he immediately checked his bag. He soon discovered that the 200,000 baht in cash was missing. Believing the passenger’s behaviour was suspicious, the doctor alerted airport staff and began following the man through the terminal. Airport officials assisted him in stopping the suspect before he was able to leave the airport. Authorities later recovered the full amount of cash. During a search, officers reportedly found additional foreign currency in the suspect’s possession. Another passenger on the same flight also reported that money had been stolen from their belongings. The suspect was handed over to police for further investigation. Officials have not yet released additional details about possible charges or the identity of the individual. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the incident and the reports from other passengers. Following the incident, Dr Songwut shared his experience as a warning to travellers. He urged airline passengers to remain vigilant and regularly check their belongings during flights. The doctor specifically advised caution when storing valuables in overhead compartments. Khaosod reported that airline security and airport authorities are expected to review the case as part of the ongoing investigation. The incident has drawn attention to the potential risk of theft during flights, particularly when passengers store valuable items out of sight. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 16 Mar 2026
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