Chonburi: A drug addict's attempt to sell a fake gold necklace at a shop in Chonburi Province led to his immediate arrest after the shop staff discovered the deception. The incident unfolded when a tall, thin man, later identified as 42-year-old Aphichat, entered a gold shop in Nong Chak Subdistrict, Ban Bueng District, trying to sell what appeared to be a two-baht gold necklace.
According to Thai News Agency, CCTV footage captured Aphichat loitering around the gold shop before finally entering and interacting with the staff. Upon inspection, the shop staff noticed irregularities in the necklace, which led to the discovery that it was fake. The staff promptly notified police patrolling the area. Aphichat, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, admitted the necklace was stolen from his aunt's residence in Thung Kwang Subdistrict, Phanat Nikhom District. He confessed to consuming three methamphetamine pills and tested positive for drugs.
The shop owner, Ms. Ploy, 47, recounted that the incident occurred on the afternoon of October 17th. Aphichat attempted to sell the necklace for 50,000 baht, asking for half in cash and the remainder via bank transfer. However, Ms. Ploy noticed the necklace was lighter than claimed, had an unusually bright color, was hard to the touch, and lacked a brand mark, confirming it was counterfeit. She immediately informed the police, who arrived within two minutes to apprehend Aphichat.
Currently, the police have charged Aphichat with drug use. The case regarding the sale of counterfeit gold is pending further investigation, and it remains to be seen whether Ms. Ploy will press additional charges.