Phuket –
Phuket police had a tense pursuit on August 25th, that ended with the capture of a man accused of committing a string of thefts across the island.
Investigators from Chalong Police Station had been tracking the suspect, known by the alias “Chang Kluay,” who was wanted on two arrest warrants and linked to at least five theft cases in Phuket. The man, who worked as a CCTV installer, allegedly used his profession to gain access to businesses, memorize layouts and entry points, and later return to steal valuables.
Around 10:30 a.m., officers attempted to apprehend the suspect after locating his vehicle. Instead of surrendering, he rammed a police car and sped off. His escape was cut short when a tire burst, forcing him to abandon the vehicle and flee on foot.
Police units cordoned off the area and spent over an hour searching before spotting him again. Despite his continued attempts to evade capture, officers chased him down and successfully restrained him.
Investigators revealed that the suspect targeted cafés, hotels, and cannabis shops, exploiting his access during installation jobs. He confessed to five thefts: three in Chalong, one in Phuket Town, and one in Kathu.
Authorities have charged him with multiple offenses, including:
- Theft by unlawful entry using a vehicle
- Nighttime theft using a vehicle
- Resisting and assaulting officers
- Property damage
- Possession and use of methamphetamine
- Driving under the influence of narcotics
Police are now expanding the investigation to determine whether he is connected to other unsolved thefts in the province.
