Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, the Royal Thai Police Commissioner, revealed that the investigation into the case of a 15-year-old youth who robbed gold in a popular Hat Yai mall is ongoing to determine whether any accomplices are involved. Meanwhile, 3 baht of the seized gold remains missing. Authorities are expediting the inquiry into the gold's final destination. He also warned that rising gold prices increase the risk of more robbery and theft cases.
At 12:00 on 5 Feb 2026 at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet updated on the questioning of a 15-year-old male youth who stole 33 baht of gold from a well-known mall in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The suspect was apprehended at the Ubon Ratchathani Passenger Terminal. The investigation is expanding to see if anyone aided or was behind the crime, as the suspect acted alone but fled from Songkhla to Ubon Ratchathani, possibly intending to escape abroad. Police suspect possible assistance from friends or instigators but have found no evidence so far. The suspect claimed to have friends in Ubon Ratchathani, which is why he fled there.
The police chief said that 30 baht of the seized gold were recovered, with 3 baht missing. Authorities are investigating what the suspect did with the missing 3 baht, whether he sold it, and the intended final use and destination of all the gold. The youth will be sent back to Songkhla Province to face legal proceedings.
The police chief stated that as gold prices have steadily risen, it was expected that robbery and theft cases would increase. Police have implemented measures to enhance surveillance and inspections, but two related incidents still occurred. He emphasized that police alone cannot solve the problem; gold shop owners should strengthen store security and protect staff and assets. Jewelry wearers should also remain cautious. Insurance companies should enforce coverage conditions that pressure insured gold shops to install more protective measures, encouraging everyone to be vigilant. Deputy National Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabutr plans to meet with the Office of Insurance Commission on 10 Feb to discuss this.
The police chief noted that youth offenders are increasing, so solutions must begin at the family level. Parents should educate their children to develop proper attitudes early on. He has instructed all police areas to involve community police support and to engage with educational institutions to provide youth with knowledge about good social behavior and legal understanding.