A manhunt is underway for a drug convict who escaped from Doi Hang prison, suspected to be heading toward the Mae Ai-Fang border. Authorities warn that providing shelter or assistance to escapees carries heavy penalties including imprisonment and fines.,
On 27 January 2026, reporters provided updates on the prison escape that has alarmed local residents. Officials from Chiang Rai Central Prison released information and a physical description of the fugitive to seek public cooperation in reporting any leads.
The incident occurred on 26 January 2026 at approximately 18:30 when officials at the temporary Doi Hang prison in Chiang Rai detected that Tanuphat Jaka, 37, a drug convict, took advantage of the evening to escape custody. Records show he had been transferred from Fang prison on 22 January to attend a "pre-release preparation program" (a five-month course) but fled just four days after the transfer.
Tanuphat Jaka, 37, of Lahu ethnicity, is approximately 150-160 centimeters tall, with a dark complexion and a sturdy build. He has shaved short hair and is originally from Village 5, Mae Nao Wang subdistrict, Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai province. He has a wife residing in Mae Nao Wang and numerous relatives in the Mae Ai and Fang districts of Chiang Mai.
Officials believe Tanuphat, familiar with the highland terrain and border areas of Fang and Mae Ai districts, may be attempting to reach relatives or flee the country through natural border crossings. Upon learning of the escape, prison authorities launched an urgent manhunt, coordinating with Chiang Rai Provincial Police and local administrative officials to establish checkpoints on main and secondary routes leading to Chiang Mai province.
Prison officials emphasized that "providing shelter or assistance to escapees carries severe penalties including imprisonment and fines." The public is urged to immediately report any sightings or information matching the description to the emergency hotline 191 or Chiang Rai Central Prison, available 24 hours a day.