CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – A foreign man was arrested near Chiang Mai after multiple residents in Doi Saket reported harassment and he was charged with night-time theft.
Arrest in San Klang after court warrant
The suspect was detained on 26 December in a house in the San Klang subdistrict of San Kamphaeng district under a warrant issued by the Chiang Mai Provincial Court. According to police, Chiang Mai immigration officers, local Doi Saket officials and tourist police took part in the operation. The man was then taken to Doi Saket police station for further questioning.
Store employee reported confrontation
The investigation began after an employee of a convenience store in Doi Saket raised the alarm on the evening of 23 December. Around 7 p.m., the foreigner allegedly caused a disturbance inside the shop. The worker told reporters the man had approached her and grabbed her by the collar, leaving her frightened.
“He confronted me directly and violently grabbed my collar.”
said the employee, according to media reports.
More residents came forward
After the incident was made public, several other residents contacted police to report alleged harassment or threats by the same man. One complainant said the suspect had attacked him while he was waiting at a red traffic light. The accounts covered incidents both inside businesses and in road traffic.
Police cited ongoing risk
Investigators said the growing number of complaints had raised concerns about a continued risk posed by the suspect. This led officers to speed up the search for the man. According to police, swift action was intended to prevent any further incidents.
Initial charge: night-time theft
The arrested man was initially charged with night-time theft and was being questioned at Doi Saket police station. Officers announced they would conduct detailed interviews with all victims and witnesses to assess whether more charges should be filed.
“We will collect all statements and then decide whether additional charges will be added.”
said police sources.
Possible penalties under Thai law
Under Thai law, night-time theft was punishable by imprisonment of one to five years. In addition, a fine of between 20,000 and 100,000 baht could be imposed. The investigation into the reported assaults and threats was continuing as police examined how many cases could lead to criminal liability for the suspect.