BANGKOK, Thailand – A solo gunman attempting to rob a gold shop in a popular mall in Krathum Baen District was swiftly apprehended by an undercover police officer, preventing a high-value theft.
CCTV footage shows the suspect, later identified as Somphong, 28, wearing dark clothing, sunglasses, and a mask, carrying a backpack as he entered the gold shop. He threatened staff with a firearm and quickly grabbed gold from the safe. As he tried to fire his gun to clear a path for escape, the magazine fell out, leaving the weapon empty. Unaware of this, he ran toward the mall exit, only to encounter Police Sergeant Major Sukit Klahsongkram, an undercover officer from Krathum Baen Police Station, who immediately intercepted him. Witnesses and nearby citizens assisted in restraining the suspect.
The total gold stolen weighed approximately 55 baht, valued at around 3,377,000 baht at current market prices. Investigations revealed that the firearm used by the robber had been previously stolen from another person.
Crime scene investigators collected fingerprints and other evidence to support legal proceedings. The suspect reportedly apologized during arrest, citing financial pressure but providing no further details. (TNA)
