Chalong –
The Chalong Police have successfully apprehended a suspect wanted for breaking into coin-operated washing machines, following weeks of evading capture under a court-issued warrant.
The Chalong Police told the Phuket Express that they tracked down the suspect, identified only as Mr. Dick (surname withheld), who had previously fled an attempted arrest. Officers seized the motorcycle allegedly used in the crimes as evidence.
The case dates back to June 26th, 2026, when police received reports of a washing machine coin box being pried open in Chalong’s jurisdiction. CCTV footage captured the suspect arriving on a motorcycle, forcing open the coin box, and fleeing the scene. Based on the evidence, investigators sought and obtained an arrest warrant from Phuket Provincial Court.
An initial raid on the suspect’s residence in Rawai failed when he escaped through the back of the house. However, on July 21st, 2026, police received intelligence that he was hiding at another property in Soi Suksomboon, Rawai. Officers surrounded the area to block escape routes before moving in.
When confronted, the suspect attempted to run again but was quickly subdued by pursuing officers. During questioning, he confessed to committing two separate thefts involving washing machine coin boxes.
Authorities have impounded his motorcycle and handed the case over to investigators for prosecution. Police confirmed that further legal proceedings are underway.
