NAKHON RATCHASIMA, THAILAND – Two Chinese nationals robbed a gold shop in Chok Chai on Sunday morning, stealing jewelry worth approximately 300,000 baht. Police arrested them the same day in Bangkok.
The Gold Shop Incident
At 10:11 a.m., two masked men entered the store in Chok Chai district. Both wore black long-sleeved shirts, shorts, and face masks. The two employees retreated to the back of the shop.The suspects could not reach secured gold chains due to protective grilles. They smashed a display case and stole several gold rings. Less than 30 seconds later, they left the store and fled in a white Toyota Yaris without license plates.
Nationwide Manhunt Launched
Police initiated a nationwide alarm immediately after the robbery. Investigators traced the getaway car to a rental office in Bangkok‘s Prawet district.Officers arrested the two suspects at that location on the same day. The stolen rings were still in their possession. No weapon was found; the detainees said they had thrown it away during the escape.
Suspects Entered as Tourists
The arrested individuals are Zou Qintao, 27, from Guangdong Province, and Song Haolong, 19, from Sichuan Province. Both had entered Thailand on tourist visas. They told police they were in a financial predicament.Investigators believe the robbery was planned. Both suspects have been charged with robbery. The case has been transferred to the public prosecutor.
Confession and Legal Situation
During police questioning, Zou and Song confirmed the act. They stated they had no money left. No violence or threats against employees were reported; the staff remained unharmed.
“We had no money left.”
the suspects told police.The police did not disclose whether the Chinese embassy in Bangkok was informed. Sentencing will follow Thailand’s criminal code for serious property crimes.
Authorities’ Response
Police representatives from Nakhon Ratchasima Province praised the quick arrests as proof of the effectiveness of the manhunt system. They noted that foreign suspects can be apprehended even after a rapid escape from the region.
“This case shows that foreign suspects can be tracked down even after a quick escape from the region.”
said a police representative from Nakhon Ratchasima Province.The investigation is complete. The case file has been handed over to the relevant prosecutor’s office.