Police arrested a 75-year-old brother-in-law who directed thieves to break into his nephew's house in Ranong, stealing 35 baht of gold valued at over 2.5 million baht along with gold-encased amulets. He claimed he acted out of spite and did not plan much because his nephew liked to flaunt his wealth.
Following the incident, the victim posted messages and CCTV footage seeking help after thieves broke into the house, stealing 35 baht of gold bars worth over 2,500,000 baht, plus several gold-encased and non-encased amulets. The burglary occurred on 10 Apr 2026 at a house on Saphan Pla Road, Mueang District, Ranong Province. A reward of 50,000 baht was offered for tips leading to the arrest.
On 19 Apr 2026, investigators from Ranong City Police arrested the first suspect, who confessed to acting as a lookout for the group of thieves. It was later revealed that the lookout was a close relative of the victim, the victim's brother-in-law. He admitted guilt, overwhelmed by evidence, citing spite because his nephew liked to post about buying and collecting gold.
Pol. Col. Thawatchai Sooncharoen, Chief of Ranong City Police, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Jakkaphan Kaewkhao, Deputy Chief of Investigation, took Mr. Thawin, 75, in for further questioning. Mr. Thawin stated that on the night of the incident, he attended the victim's mother's birthday party and provided information about where valuables were stored and when the house was empty to facilitate the crime. When the opportunity arose, he called the agreed team to carry out the theft.
Mr. Thawin admitted he had no elaborate plan but acted out of jealousy because his nephew liked to brag. He thought someone should take the valuables because of his annoyance with the nephew's posts and showiness. He met acquaintances he had worked with before and gave them information, letting them plan the crime on their own.
Pol. Col. Thawatchai added that four people in total are involved, all identified with known addresses. Initially, they were charged with jointly committing theft by breaking barriers at night using a vehicle. The suspect confessed and cooperated with police by providing information on the whereabouts of the other three suspects, who are being pursued for arrest and prosecution.