BANGKOK, THAILAND – A 59-year-old Chinese tourist has been arrested after stealing a gold bracelet valued at 111,280 Baht from a well-known jewelry store in Bangkok’s Wang Burapha district. The suspect was apprehended at a hotel on Tri Mit Road following a weeks-long manhunt, with surveillance footage providing crucial evidence.
Daring Daylight Theft
The incident began on September 8, 2025, when the jeweler discovered a missing 2-baht gold bracelet worth 111,280 Baht during a routine inventory. CCTV footage revealed a man wearing jeans, a striped T-shirt, and a baseball cap entering the shop at 11:08 a.m.
The video clearly shows the Chinese tourist examining the bracelet before skillfully slipping it into his bag. Speaking only Chinese, he exited the store as if nothing had happened. However, the cameras had captured every move.
Manhunt Leads to Hotel Arrest
Officers from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station immediately launched an investigation. Gathering evidence, detectives identified the suspect and tracked him to a hotel on Tri Mit Road, where an arrest warrant was issued.
On October 10, around 3:00 p.m., the suspect, Mr. Li Zhushou, appeared in the hotel lobby. At 5:30 p.m., police moved in and arrested him. His facial features matched those on the warrant precisely.
Confession Amid Denial
Despite overwhelming evidence, the 59-year-old initially denied the theft. Eventually, he confessed and agreed to compensate the jeweler for the loss. Nevertheless, he was taken to the police station and formally charged with theft.
The Chinese embassy was notified of the incident. For Mr. Li, the consequences could be severe, regardless of his willingness to pay restitution.
Frequent Visits Raise Suspicions
Investigations revealed an intriguing pattern: Mr. Li, from China’s Hunan province, visits Thailand about once a month, each time staying for no more than three days.
On the day of the theft, he reportedly carried only two sets of clothes and planned to return to China immediately after the incident. Police are now investigating whether this points to a premeditated crime.
What Awaits the Suspect?
Gold theft is harshly punished in Thailand. Mr. Li faces the prospect of imprisonment, even though he has offered compensation. The case underscores the high level of surveillance in Thai jewelry stores—leaving little chance for thieves to escape detection.