Manhunt After Suspect Steals Gold Necklace in Samut Prakan

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

Police in Samut Prakan have launched a manhunt after a suspect repeatedly visited a gold shop before snatching gold necklaces and fleeing, causing shock among staff and prompting an urgent investigation. The theft occurred in Bang Phli district, where officers say the suspect escaped with some of the jewellery despite staff managing to grab some back during the struggle. No injuries were reported, but the incident has heightened concern among local traders.

The incident took place at about 18:00 on 14 December 2025 at Win Win Gold Shop, located at the entrance to Ban Ua-Arthorn Bang Chalong, Moo 1, Bang Chalong sub-district, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. Police from Bang Phli station, led by Pol Lt Apisit Tonsalee, deputy investigation inspector, responded alongside senior officers including Pol Col Phairoj Phetphloy, the station superintendent. CCTV footage and witness statements were immediately secured as part of the inquiry.

According to police, the suspect posed as a customer and asked to view gold necklaces, equivalent to one and a half baht weight each. A staff member placed three necklaces on a tray for inspection, after which the suspect seized them and ran out of the shop towards the road leading to the Bang Chalong Subdistrict Administrative Organisation office. Staff managed to grab back one and a half necklaces, leaving the suspect with one complete necklace and part of the other.

Ms Narakorn, 29, a shop employee, said the man came alone and was described as a young adult wearing a navy jacket. She told police that he did not look Thai and spoke Thai unclearly, adding that he took photos of the jewellery before suddenly grabbing the necklaces and running. Another employee, Ms Patchara, 38, said the suspect had visited the shop four times in total, each time asking to see gold and making phone calls as if consulting a friend.

Ms Patchara added that during the first three visits, the man photographed the shop sign and interior and sent images to someone else, without committing a crime. On the fourth visit, he carried out the theft, taking one necklace and another half before staff intervened. Both employees said the suspect wore a black face mask and behaved suspiciously, frequently using his phone while viewing the gold.

Khoasod reported that police are reviewing CCTV and described the suspect as of normal build, about 160cm tall, aged approximately 30 to 35, wearing a dark blue jacket and black shorts. Investigators are now tracing his movements and appealing for information from the public. Officers said efforts are under way to identify and arrest the suspect and proceed with legal action.

Key Takeaways

• A suspect stole a gold necklace from a Samut Prakan shop on 14 December 2025.

• Shop staff recovered one and a half necklaces, while the suspect escaped with one and part of another.

• Police are analysing CCTV and continuing a manhunt to bring the suspect to justice.

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 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-16