Bangkok: Former prisoner Mr. Prawet, who had recently been released, was arrested by the Metropolitan Police Bureau 2 for committing theft at two clinics in the Chatuchak area, stealing property valued at over 1 million baht. He claims the challenges of life outside prison drove him to reoffend.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Jessada Suaysom Raksaowakarn Tan, Commander of Metropolitan Police Bureau 2, announced the arrest of the 53-year-old ex-convict. The first theft occurred on January 6 at a hair care clinic, where Mr. Prawet stole over 191 items worth more than 500,000 baht. The second incident took place on January 14, 2015, at another clinic, resulting in the theft of items worth approximately 1,300,000 baht.
Investigations and CCTV footage revealed that the same person was responsible for both thefts. Identified as Mr. Prawet, he had been released from prison on January 2. The police tracked his escape route and discovered he had fled to Samrong Nuea, Samut Prakan Province, where he pawned the stolen property. This led to his arrest warrant being issued.
During interrogation, Mr. Prawet confessed to both thefts, admitting he had just been released from prison and was struggling to adapt to life outside. Unable to find accommodation or work, he resorted to sleeping in an abandoned house. With no food or water, he decided to steal from a clinic, finding over 190 items during the first break-in.
After pawning some belongings, he used the money to rent a hotel and buy personal items. When his funds ran low, he returned to Bangkok and committed another theft at a clinic, making off with over 1,300,000 baht.
Mr. Prawet claimed he used the stolen cash to pay for hotel stays and other services, spending about 200,000 baht before his arrest. He expressed relief at being apprehended, stating that prison provided him with essential needs and companionship, which he found lacking outside.
The acting commander of Metropolitan Police Division 2 confirmed that Mr. Prawet had a history of theft and was released from prison only days before reoffending. The suspect stated that the difficulties of living alone without basic necessities were more challenging than life in prison, prompting his return to criminal activities.