Bangkok: Victims of repeated motorcycle thefts have voiced their frustration after being targeted by a notorious group dubbed the '100 Young Gang.' This gang, consisting of juveniles aged 12-15, has been arrested and released nine times due to juvenile laws, only to continue their criminal activities.
According to Thai News Agency, the victims, numbering five initially, reported their grievances to the Sai Mai Must Survive page after being robbed, particularly in areas spanning King Kaew Road, On Nut Road, and Chaloem Phra Kiat Road. These areas cover Udomsuk, Bang Na District, and Prawet District, close to Samut Prakan. The victims discovered through a chat group that the same gang was responsible for the thefts. Despite reporting the incidents to the police, the juveniles were released, leading the victims to take matters into their own hands. They found the culprits, only to see them released and resuming their thefts.
A female victim recounted her experience of having three motorcycles stolen from under a shophouse on King Kaew Road. Although clear photographic evidence was available, the police released the juveniles upon intervention from their parents, citing juvenile laws. The victims were advised to contact the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, but no progress has been made.
Another victim shared details of his motorcycle being stolen on February 2nd. CCTV footage captured the gang of three targeting his Honda Wave 125i near On Nut 66. The footage showed the gang breaking the lock and hiding the vehicle in a secluded spot. They returned to steal another motorcycle of the same model and color before fleeing.
The victims have now identified over 20 vehicles stolen by the gang, with estimates suggesting over 100 victims. The gang is known for renting daily accommodations and moving frequently after committing their crimes. The Honda Wave 125i, particularly in gray and white from the years 23-25, is a popular target.
The victims noted that despite being taken to Phra Khanong Police Station, there was never any progress, and the juveniles were always released. This has led to suspicions of adult involvement or possible orders to exploit legal loopholes by using minors for thefts. Despite providing the police with comprehensive reports, victims were told to wait.
Mr. Ekkapop Lueangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Thang Rot page, expressed concern over the societal damage caused by these youth groups. He emphasized the financial burden on individuals who purchase motorcycles in installments. He called for parental accountability and questioned whether parents might be complicit. Moving forward, the Metropolitan Police Bureau will be contacted to deploy an investigation team to dismantle these gangs, believed to have adult backing.