Bangkok police apprehended a 22 year old Thai man for allegedly breaking into donation boxes at temples to fund his heroin addiction, under the guise of treating an illness.
Vorakan was arrested after a comprehensive investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Bang Rak police officers. The arrest took place at a car park of a temple in the Chom Thong district of Bangkok. The suspect is charged with theft in a public place of worship and damaging protective barriers, according to a warrant issued by the South Bangkok Criminal Court.
Vorakan’s criminal activities first came to light on December 9 when he was seen pretending to worship a Buddha statue at a temple. He hid in the temple until it closed, then proceeded to break into a donation box and stole cash.
The incident prompted an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s investigative unit and Bang Rak’s local police, who soon identified Vorakan as the suspect. Despite his transient lifestyle, sleeping in public spaces, the police were able to track him down and arrest him.
During initial questioning, Vorakan admitted to using the stolen donation money to buy heroin, claiming it was for treating a personal illness and to pay off his debts. Further investigations revealed that he was involved in another theft on December 13 at a temple within the jurisdiction of Buppharam Police Station.
Vorakan has a history of similar offences, having been previously charged with theft involving breaking and entering at Somdet Chao Phraya Police Station in 2022, and vandalism related to a donation box at Bang Khun Thian Police Station in 2023.
The arresting officers transferred Vorakan to the Bang Rak Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police Colonel Theeradet remarked on the case, stating that the suspect posed a threat to society, causing distress among the public. He also noted that Vorakan was a vagrant with no fixed address, which necessitated a swift arrest, reported KhaoSod.
Police urge the public to remain vigilant, carefully monitor individuals entering their premises, and ensure comprehensive CCTV coverage for added security.
The story Heroin addiction: Temple donation box thief arrested in Bangkok as seen on Thaiger News.
