BANGKOK — Colombian gang arrested for robbery around communities, stealing over 3 million baht worth of property in 5 incidents across 5 provinces in just 10 days.
On July 19, 2024, Police Lieutenant General Jirasan Kaewsaengaek, Commander of Provincial Police Region 1, and immigration police investigators announced the arrest of four Colombian men: Ferdy Alexandias (52), John Eswin (47), Aldeas Philippe (29), and Marco Turio (51).
Some were arrested at a condominium in Soi Rattanathibet 22, Bang Kra So Subdistrict, Muang District, Nonthaburi Province, while others were apprehended at a hotel in Soi Bua Khao, South Pattaya Road, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province.
Evidence seized included stolen property such as cash, gold necklaces, rings, watches totaling 125 items worth approximately 3 million baht, as well as burglary tools, screwdrivers, pliers, work tools, clothes worn during the crimes, and rented motorcycles used in the robberies.
The investigation began in early July when Provincial Police Region 1 received reports of a gang robbing houses in gated communities across several areas. The gang committed crimes on:
- July 7 in Bang Pakong District, Chachoengsao Province
- July 8 in Bang Mae Nang Subdistrict, Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi Province
- July 9 in Bang Kaeo District, Samut Prakan Province
- July 16 in Bang Pa-in District, Ayutthaya Province
- July 17 in Bang Khen and Khan Na Yao Districts, Bangkok
The joint investigation with immigration police revealed that the perpetrators were Colombians who intentionally planned these crimes. They used rented cars and motorcycles to target gated communities in Bangkok and surrounding areas, typically striking in the early evening before homeowners returned. They used tools to break into houses and steal valuables.
Upon confirming the suspects’ identities, police obtained search and arrest warrants. The Colombian group was charged with conspiracy to commit nighttime burglary, damaging property barriers, and using vehicles in the commission of crimes. This offense carries a punishment of one to seven years imprisonment and a fine of 20,000 to 140,000 baht.
Police stated that if members of the public wish to check if any of the seized items belong to them, they can do so at Bang Kaeo Police Station in Samut Prakan Province.
______
