Man Arrested After Snatching Gold Necklace in Buriram

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

A 29-year-old man was arrested within hours after snatching a gold necklace from a Thai woman in Buriram, with police recovering the stolen property and charging the suspect with robbery. The incident occurred on 3 January while the victim was visiting the city’s pillar shrine with her foreign partner, causing shock but no physical injury. Police said the swift arrest helped reassure both local residents and tourists during the busy New Year period.

The robbery took place in front of the Buriram City Pillar Shrine as the victim, Ms Prakiatpi Chimprakorn, 40, was accompanying her British boyfriend to pray during the New Year holiday. The suspect, identified as Mr Korkamon, allegedly grabbed a one-baht-weight gold necklace valued at 64,000 baht before fleeing the scene. Officers from Buriram City Police Station and the provincial investigation unit launched an immediate search following the report.

Police later arrested the suspect near the Buriram Primary Educational Service Area Office 1 auditorium, around 500 metres from the scene, where he was hiding. The arrest was carried out by officers led by Pol Col Jamras Siriliang, superintendent of Buriram City Police Station, along with investigators including Pol Capt Mutita Odtorn. The suspect was taken to reenact the crime after confessing during questioning.

During interrogation, Mr Korkamon admitted to planning the robbery in advance due to financial pressure from debts totalling more than 30,000 baht. He told police he had been pursued aggressively by creditors and felt he had no way out, prompting the offence. Investigators said he used a grey Honda Scoopy i motorcycle without a registration plate, parking it near a canal to facilitate his escape.

Police also revealed that the suspect had a prior criminal record for theft from an employer. The stolen gold necklace was recovered in full and returned to the victim. Officers confirmed that Mr Korkamon has been formally charged with robbery and will face legal proceedings.

Ms Prakiatpi said she was shaken by the incident but relieved by the outcome, praising police for their rapid response. She added that her British partner also expressed appreciation for the professionalism and efficiency of Thai police.

Daily News reported that authorities said the case highlights the importance of visible policing around tourist sites, particularly during holiday periods. Police will now proceed with the legal process against the suspect, while maintaining heightened patrols in key public areas. Investigators said no further suspects are involved in the case.

Key Takeaways

• A 29-year-old man was arrested shortly after snatching a gold necklace worth 64,000 baht in Buriram on 3 January.

• Police recovered the stolen necklace and confirmed the suspect confessed due to debt pressure exceeding 30,000 baht.

• The victim and her British partner praised Thai police for their fast and effective response.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Dailynews 2026-01-04