BANGKOK — Metropolitan Police Division 6 and Phlap Phla Chai Police Station have arrested one of two Colombian suspects involved in a high-profile theft targeting a hair dye business owner’s luxury vehicle. The theft resulted in losses of approximately $27,000 in cash (900,000 baht) and 50-baht weight of gold, with total damages amounting to $95,000 (3.2 million baht).
Police arrested 73-year-old Jose Orlando at his condominium in the On Nut area of Bangkok’s Suan Luang district on November 27 at 11:30 p.m. Officers recovered $14,000 (475,000 baht) in cash and a 20-baht weight gold bar valued at $26,000 (880,000 baht), totaling approximately $40,000 (1.355 million baht) of the stolen assets.
The incident occurred on November 23 when the businessman parked his white Lexus in the B5 parking level of AmChina Town. After the businessman sold some gold at a shop in Yaowarat and returned to his car with the proceeds plus additional gold bars, the suspects followed him and smashed the left rear window at 4:48 p.m., stealing a bag containing the valuables.
Through CCTV footage, police identified two foreign suspects wearing caps and masks. While Orlando was apprehended, his accomplice has reportedly fled to Cambodia. During questioning, Orlando confessed to the theft, stating he needed money for personal expenses.
The suspect faces charges of theft with property damage and disguise. The investigation continues as authorities seek to recover the remaining stolen assets worth approximately $55,000 (1.85 million baht).
