KRABI, THAILAND – A Canadian tourist allegedly stole a parked car from inside Krabi City Police Station and was arrested after a chase through the city.
Tourist enters car as driver waits for child
On the afternoon of 19 December, Thai driver Natthapong was waiting in his car outside a school for his child. Suddenly, 43-year-old Canadian Michael James Parton opened the door and sat down next to him, leaving the driver badly frightened and worried for his safety. To avoid a confrontation, Natthapong drove directly to Krabi City Police Station to seek help from officers.
Car taken from police compound in seconds
In front of the station, Natthapong stepped out to alert police. In that brief unguarded moment, the Canadian allegedly slid into the driver’s seat, started the engine and sped off from the police yard, stunning the officers on site. Police radio was activated immediately, and more than 30 officers were mobilised to block exit routes and intercept the fleeing vehicle.
Chase through Krabi ends near hospital
Patrol cars with lights and sirens pursued the suspect along Utarakit Road in central Krabi. In front of a convenience store near Krabi Hospital, officers managed to bring the car to a final stop and overpower the Canadian. A crowd of onlookers had already gathered and watched the dramatic end of the chase unfold.
Investigations into motive, intoxication and visa
The arrested man was taken straight back to the station and is accused of theft as investigators examine his background in detail. Officers are checking whether drugs or alcohol played a role, and the Immigration Bureau has been called in to verify his legal residence status in Thailand.
“All standard procedures for foreign suspects are being applied.”
said a police spokesperson.
Authorities stress zero tolerance in high season
The incident sent a troubling signal during the tourism high season, as the brazen act by a foreigner on police-controlled premises caused widespread disbelief among residents and visitors. Thai authorities, however, underlined their determination through the rapid arrest, stating that such incidents would not be tolerated. For the Canadian, the alleged stunt could now mean time behind Thai bars instead of a planned beach holiday.