Two Lao thieves who stole gold worth approximately 13 million baht from a prominent mall in Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai Province, have been arrested after fleeing to Bokeo Province, Laos PDR. Authorities are preparing to request the suspects' return to Thailand to face prosecution.
On 20 August 2026 in Chiang Rai Province, reporters updated on the case where armed robbers raided a gold shop inside a shopping mall branch in Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, stealing gold jewelry weighing a total of 184 baht, valued at about 13 million baht, before fleeing across the Mekong River into Laos PDR. The incident occurred on 4 August 2026.
Following coordination between Thai and Lao authorities, relevant agencies have been continuously tracking the suspects. Recently, Mr. Surachet Phuynoi, Chief of Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, disclosed that he received reports from Pol. Col. Ratwich Vasinpongthanat, Superintendent of Chiang Khong Police Station, about coordination with the Security Command (PKS) in Huay Sai City, Bokeo Province, Laos PDR, and related agencies confirming the arrest of suspects under arrest warrants on 19 August 2026. The suspects include Mr. Somchai Tippawan, 32, a Lao national currently unemployed and residing in Khon Kaew Village, Huay Sai City, Bokeo Province, arrested on robbery charges.
Also arrested was Mr. Ai Wilaisuk, 31, a Lao national residing in Ban Mai Huay Sai Nuea, Huay Sai City, Bokeo Province, who works as a boat operator. He faces charges of conspiracy and complicity in the robbery.
Initially, both suspects are undergoing legal procedures under Laos PDR's jurisdiction and are awaiting formal communication from Lao authorities. Meanwhile, Thai officials are preparing to request extradition of the suspects to prosecute them in Thailand. Investigations continue to pursue remaining accomplices. Details about the firearms and seized evidence, especially the gold related to the case, have not yet been officially disclosed.