A desperate attempt to steal a valuable gold bracelet ended with a 26-year-old man trapped inside a jewelry store in Bang Phli district on Saturday evening. Identified as Surasak from Buriram, the suspect was apprehended after finding himself locked within the Yaowarat Bang Phli gold shop.
Caught in the Act
Authorities were alerted when the man allegedly attempted to flee the shop, a gold bracelet valued at approximately 71,000 baht still on his wrist. Shopkeepers, realizing the attempted theft, had secured the premises by locking the doors.
Desperation Fueled by Debt
According to Pol Lt Col Pawat Ratanaporn, deputy chief of Bang Phli station, the suspect’s actions were driven by significant financial pressure. He recently caused a traffic accident by driving against the flow of traffic and reportedly lacked the funds to cover the estimated 200,000 baht in damages.
The Plan Unfolds
The narrative from investigators indicates that Surasak visited the gold shop on Saturday evening and selected a specific gold bracelet. He persistently requested to try it on. Initially, the shopkeeper declined, but after repeated entreaties, the vendor eventually allowed him to wear the bracelet. It was at this point that the shopkeeper surreptitiously locked the store’s doors.
Failed Escape
Once the bracelet was on his wrist, Surasak allegedly made an attempt to exit the shop. However, his escape was thwarted by the locked doors, leading to his capture. Police were subsequently summoned to the scene.
Charges Filed
Upon questioning, Surasak reportedly confessed to police that the substantial debt from the traffic accident had left him in a desperate situation, prompting his decision to steal from the gold shop. He has since been charged with attempted theft.
