Police in Chachoengsao apprehended two people suspected of motorcycle theft, with intentions to smuggle the vehicles across the border.
The suspects, 24 year old Nantawat and 16 year old A, were stopped during a routine vehicle check on Highway 3259. Both had motorcycles without registration plates, raising the suspicion of the officers.
Upon inspection, the motorcycles were found to be in poor condition, showing signs of tampering at the ignition key slots and modified ignition switches. Additionally, further evidence of tampering was discovered under the seats. Consequently, the suspects and the motorcycles were detained for further investigation.
During questioning, both suspects denied knowledge of the theft, claiming they were merely paid couriers. They stated they were hired through a contact on Facebook, receiving 1,000 baht (US$30) per motorcycle to transport them from Ko Chan district in Chon Buri to the border in Sa Kaeo province.
The suspects insisted their only motive was the payment, as they were both unemployed, reported KhaoSod.
The investigation took an interesting turn when Nantawat received a phone call during the interrogation. With the speakerphone on, a voice on the line, purportedly a guide, instructed them to proceed with their task, assuring them that the military personnel would not apprehend them.
Further examination of the stolen motorcycles revealed drug paraphernalia, and both individuals admitted to drug use before their arrest.
In related news, a patrol unit from Phetkasem apprehended a 37 year old man for motorcycle theft, catching him in the act as he attempted to swap out the licence plate of the stolen motorcycle. The arrest occurred on January 12 at 3pm, in the Lak Song subdistrict, Bang Khae district, Bangkok.
The suspect, 37 year old Chaiyot “Boy” Boonyawong, confessed to stealing the motorcycle from the Bang Mae Nang police jurisdiction.
Police Colonel Pramote Chanboonkaew, along with his team including Pol. Lt. Col. Kamlet Poolsukho, Pol. Lt. Col. Boonyarak Thonginsri, and other officers detained Chaiyot. He was found with a Yamaha motorcycle without a licence plate and three additional licence plates.
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