PHICHIT — Thai authorities have successfully disrupted an illegal gold mining operation in Phichit province, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects including Vietnamese nationals. The bust occurred after a key suspect accidentally revealed their escape plan through an unmuted speaker phone.
Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division officers raided the site at Khao Phanom Pha mountain in Wang Sai Phun district following reports of unauthorized mining activities by Vietnamese investors. During the January 10 operation, officers discovered an active mining operation using explosives to extract gold-bearing soil from the mountain.
The first arrest was made of Peeraboon, 58, who was charged with illegal forest destruction and unauthorized possession of military-grade materials. Further investigation led to the apprehension of additional suspects: Mr. Duong, 38, a Vietnamese national; Bunyom, 48; Somporn, 45; Pattana, 37; and Sawat, 63.
In a crucial moment during the operation, Duong attempted to warn his associates to flee while officers were temporarily distracted. However, his plan backfired when his phone’s speaker function accidentally activated, alerting nearby officers who then successfully intercepted all suspects before they could escape.
Authorities seized 39 pieces of evidence, including ammonium nitrate explosives and various mining equipment from the Khao Phanom Pha site. All suspects were taken to Wang Sai Phun Police Station for processing.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed that rising gold prices had motivated them to establish this illegal mining venture, partnering with Vietnamese investors to finance the operation.
The suspects face multiple charges, including unauthorized forest destruction and illegal possession of explosive materials. The case highlights ongoing challenges in preventing illegal mining operations in Thailand’s protected areas.
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