A 31-year-old Chinese national faces scrutiny after police uncover military-grade weapons and explosives linked to several Thai police and military officers in Chon Buri province.
Vehicle Crash Sparks Investigation
Mingchen Sun crashed his car in Sattahip district on May 9 while traveling with a Taiwanese woman. Officers from Na Jomtien Police Station inspected the vehicle and found a Glock 26 pistol, two magazines, and 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition inside.
The discovery led investigators to Sun’s luxury residence in Soi Huay Yai, where they seized M16 rifles and C4 explosives among other military-style weapons.
Suspect’s Explanation Raises Doubts
During questioning, Sun claimed he bought the weapons online intending to use them in a suicide attempt due to ongoing depression. Investigators remain skeptical and probe deeper into his motives and the weapons’ origins.
Arrests Reveal Thai Connections
Tracing the firearms led to five Thai nationals, including officials. Police arrested three suspects: Kachain, a shooting instructor from a Pattaya range; 51-year-old Jamrong; and 46-year-old navy officer Maythee.
Kachain admitted helping Sun source firearms by contacting the navy officer. Jamrong confessed to allowing Sun to use his bank account for weapons-related transactions but denied direct involvement in purchases.
The trio implicated 43-year-old soldier Watcharin and 55-year-old navy officer Pathomphon, accused of removing weapons from military storage for sale to Sun. Watcharin declined comment, while Pathomphon denied knowing Sun or aiding in weapons storage.
Police Officer’s Firearm Traced
One seized firearm belonged to police officer Bandit, who pawned it to colleague Patinya for 50,000 baht. Unable to repay, Bandit directed Patinya to sell it. Patinya involved officer Patiparn, who sold it to Sun for 100,000 baht via Sun’s former Thai wife, Jantima, Patiparn’s ex-partner.
Ongoing Probe and Clarifications
A special committee examines the weapons’ ownership trail and officers’ conduct. No disciplinary or criminal actions announced yet.
Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, Thitawat Suriyachai, dismissed online rumors, confirming Sun holds no Thai citizenship or ID despite prior reports.
Authorities continue investigating weapons sources, official involvement, possession motives, and Sun’s mental health.
