PATTAYA, Thailand – On August 31st, 2025, at 5:00 PM, Pattaya City Police, with the help of vigilant citizens, arrested 20-year-old Thanawat Dathong for stealing a motorcycle from an apartment complex in Soi Mab Yai Lia.
The incident began when Thanawat stole a black Honda Wave 125, registered under license plate GKH 870 Chonburi, belonging to Chalermphon Thianmanee, a motorcycle taxi driver, from a taxi queue in Soi Pattaya Klang 12. CCTV footage revealed that Thanawat rode his own white motorcycle to the area, parked near a snooker table, and seized the opportunity to steal Chalermphon’s bike, which had its key left in the ignition.
Upon discovering the theft, Chalermphon promptly alerted the police and devised a plan with friends to stake out the snooker table, anticipating the thief’s return for his own motorcycle. As expected, Thanawat returned but found his white motorcycle missing, as police had already confiscated it. Attempting to flee, he was swiftly apprehended by the combined efforts of good Samaritans and law enforcement.
During the suspect’s transfer to Pattaya City Police Station, a dramatic scene unfolded. Thanawat’s close friend, referred to as “Mr. A” (name withheld), rode a motorcycle alongside the police vehicle, hurling insults and throwing objects at it in frustration. In the chaos, Mr. A crashed into a parked car along the roadside.
In a tearful statement, Mr. A expressed deep disappointment in Thanawat’s actions. He revealed that he had repeatedly tried to support and steer Thanawat away from trouble, especially given his friend’s history of drug abuse. However, Thanawat’s involvement in the theft not only betrayed their friendship but also implicated another friend who had provided him shelter, causing further distress.
The case remains under investigation as police continue to address the incident and its repercussions.
