The Royal Thai Police warn criminals against exploiting the flood situation to steal from victims, imposing severe penalties of up to 5 years imprisonment and fines ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 baht, which are harsher than usual sanctions.
Today (27 Sep 2026), Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat Deepho, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police, stated that following the Meteorological Department’s heavy rainfall warnings causing flash floods and flash floods in many areas, Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet expressed concern for citizens affected by flooding, including crimes where criminals might exploit the situation to commit theft, further worsening victims’ hardships during evacuation or abandonment of their homes.
The Royal Thai Police warn the public to be vigilant against such crimes and alert those considering illegal acts about the legal penalties as follows.
1. Strictly prohibit taking advantage of flooding areas for theft – such acts worsen victims’ suffering and are considered aggravated offenses. Offenders will be prosecuted under Penal Code Section 335 (2) for theft in disaster or flood areas, punishable by imprisonment of 1-5 years and fines from 20,000 to 100,000 baht, with penalties harsher than usual.
2. Lock homes and securely store valuables before evacuation – if evacuation from risk areas announced by the Meteorological Department is necessary, important documents and valuables should be taken along. Immovable assets should be stored safely, hidden, and placed above flood levels.
3. Establish community watch networks – besides police protecting citizens’ safety and property, residents remaining in the area should help monitor neighborhood homes and keep entryways well-lit at night to deter criminals.
4. Monitor and report suspicious individuals – if strangers are seen rowing boats or driving vehicles near flooded homes without valid reasons, promptly note their appearance, vehicle details, and immediately report to police for inspection.
If citizens observe suspicious behavior or suffer theft, they can report incidents via hotlines 191 or the Royal Thai Police hotline 1599. For emergency assistance, contact the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation hotline 1784 or emergency medical services hotline 1669, available 24 hours.