Bangkok: The gang responsible for the audacious robbery of 3.4 million baht at a renowned shopping mall in the Lat Phrao district has been apprehended and subjected to extensive questioning by the police. The suspects claimed they were misled into participating in the crime and have yet to receive their share of the loot. Meanwhile, the gang’s alleged leader, identified as ‘Seua Pun’, is expected to be captured soon.
According to Thai News Agency, the Metropolitan Police Bureau successfully arrested Mr. Ananchai, also known as Ice, a key suspect in the robbery. He surrendered to authorities at the Bang Sri Muang Police Station in Nonthaburi Province and was subsequently brought to the Phaholyothin Police Station for further questioning. When approached by reporters, Mr. Ice maintained that he was unwittingly involved in the crime, having been lured to the mall under false pretenses. He insisted he was unarmed and that the robbery unfolded too rapidly for him to react, leaving him in shock.
Mr. Ice further explained that his association with Mr. Worawat, alias Suea Pun, began at a tourist location and that he did not receive any share of the stolen money. Despite being pressed for more details about his actions post-robbery and any agreements with Suea Pun, Mr. Ice remained silent before being taken for further interrogation by the police.
The Metropolitan Police Bureau also apprehended Mr. Nontawat, known as Song, another suspect, at his Nonthaburi residence. Injured while attempting to escape, Mr. Song was transported from Phra Nang Klao Hospital to the Phaholyothin Police Station, displaying visible injuries. Despite numerous questions from reporters about his involvement and knowledge of the robbery, Mr. Song remained unresponsive.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Chotiwat Luengwilai of the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Investigation Division disclosed that both suspects provided preliminary information, acknowledging their presence at the crime scene. Detailed questioning will follow, and an official press conference is anticipated, detailing further insights from high-ranking police commanders.
The police have arrested four suspects in total, while efforts continue to locate the remaining three fugitives, including Mr. Worawat, Mr. Ball, and Mr. Rungnirun, who have yet to surrender. Law enforcement is intensifying efforts to bring them to justice.
In a related development, authorities have seized the silver-bronze Honda Civic used in the robbery, now stationed at the Phaholyothin Police Station for evidence collection. The vehicle’s license plate was reportedly removed and hidden in Nonthaburi. The investigation revealed that the car belongs to Mr. Ice’s wife, and he was the driver during the heist. Mr. Song, a close associate of Suea Pun, was also present in the vehicle. After dividing the stolen money, the suspects parted ways, evading capture until their recent apprehension.