Nakhon ratchasima: Police in Nakhon Ratchasima have successfully intercepted a gang accused of manipulating scales and cheating villagers in pig transactions. The incident unfolded when a pickup truck loaded with pigs, which had previously been purchased from villagers in Chum Phuang District without full payment, was stopped by law enforcement in Phimai District.

According to Thai News Agency, the villagers, suspecting foul play, reported the incident to Chum Phuang Police. The police then collaborated with Phimai Police Station 191 to track the vehicle. Officers soon located the truck near a traffic light intersection in Ban Wang Hin, Tambon Nai Mueang. Upon identification, Mr. Sakkasem, 41, was arrested along with five passengers. The vehicle was found to contain 11 pigs acquired from the villagers.

At the police station, Mr. Kongnathi Phanthong, a local farmer, recounted selling two pigs to Mr. Sakkasem for 67 baht per kilogram. However, Mr. Sakkasem underpaid, providing only 8,130 baht instead of the agreed 8,710 baht, and quickly fled the scene. Mr. Phanthong also suspected that the scales were manipulated, prompting him to alert the authorities.

Subsequent weighing at the police station revealed a discrepancy, showing the pigs weighed 170 kilograms, 40 kilograms more than initially claimed. Mr. Sakkasem conceded to paying the remaining balance but maintained that poor visibility due to rain had caused the error. Despite his explanation, police remain skeptical and plan to further investigate the incident. Authorities urge anyone who may have been similarly deceived by pig buyers to come forward and report to the police.