CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – Police and rescue teams in northern Thailand searched the Ping River for a foreign man who allegedly stole a police motorcycle and escaped arrest by jumping into the water.
Search in the Ping River under way
Officers from the Mueang Chiang Mai police station and rescue workers from several foundations combed the Ping River but initially found no trace of the suspect. According to the teams involved, the man had not been located or clearly identified by the latest update.
They also stated that his nationality remained unconfirmed. The search focused on the stretch of river where he was last seen entering the water.
Theft at temple triggered pursuit
According to a report by Channel 7, the incident began with the theft of a police motorcycle at Suan Dok Temple. The man then reportedly fled on the motorcycle.
This led to a pursuit in which he allegedly drove at high speed to escape patrol officers. Police followed him through city traffic until he reached a major road leading out of the area.
Escape along Mahidol Road to army bridge
Based on initial investigations, the route led towards the 5th Army Area Bridge on Mahidol Road in the Pa Daet district. At the bridge, the man was said to have stopped and left the motorcycle behind.
He then jumped from the bridge into the Ping River, went under the surface and disappeared from sight. Witnesses no longer saw any movement in the water after he submerged.
More than an hour of searching and fear of hiding place
Police and rescue teams searched for more than an hour but were unable to find the man, according to their own account. They checked both the river and areas along the banks.
Because the operation leaders assumed he might also be hiding nearby, the search was extended on land. Officers inspected the surroundings for any sign that he had left the water.
Motive and identity still unclear
Police did not release any details about a possible motive for the alleged theft of the motorcycle. They also did not disclose a name or other personal information.
No official information was given on whether the man might have been injured or whether there were indications of any danger to the public. Authorities said they were continuing their inquiries into his identity.
Similar incidents in Krabi and Koh Samui seen as warning
In December, a Canadian man was arrested in Krabi after allegedly stealing a car near a police station, according to police. The case drew attention because of the proximity to law enforcement facilities.
In February, authorities on Koh Samui reported an incident in which a Norwegian man allegedly attacked a Thai driver and then stole a pickup truck. Both cases were cited locally as warning signs about violent thefts involving foreign nationals.