BANGKOK, Thailand — Jose Orlando Ocampo, a 73-year-old Colombian man, was arrested in Bangkok after allegedly stealing 3.28 million baht (approximately $94,000) in cash and gold from a luxury car parked at a shopping mall over the weekend.
The Theft and Investigation
The theft occurred on Saturday, when a businessman left his car parked at a shopping mall after completing a transaction involving the sale of 20 gold bars. The businessman reported that the vehicle was broken into overnight, and that the stolen items included 983,000 baht in cash, 50 gold bars worth 2.2 million baht, and gold ornaments valued at 87,500 baht.
On Sunday morning, the businessman discovered the rear left window of his car had been shattered. Security footage later revealed two individuals approaching the car at around 4:48 AM, with one of them identified as Jose Orlando Ocampo. The pair reportedly broke into the vehicle and stole two bags containing the valuables.
Ocampo’s Arrest
Bangkok police tracked down Ocampo, arresting him on Wednesday at his rented condo in the Suan Luang district of Bangkok, around 3:30 PM. Upon his arrest, authorities seized 475,000 baht in cash and 20 gold bars weighing 304.88 grams (worth approximately 880,000 baht) from Ocampo.
Accomplice Flees to Cambodia
Ocampo’s unnamed accomplice, who is also believed to be a foreigner, fled the country and is believed to have taken the remaining stolen cash, gold bars, and gold ornaments across the border into Cambodia.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the case, as the stolen gold and cash remain unaccounted for, and efforts are underway to locate Ocampo’s accomplice.
