UBON RATCHATHANI, THAILAND – A former head waiter, 20-year-old Natthaphon Wongko, has been arrested for breaking into a shabu restaurant and stealing money from the establishment.
The incident took place at Nai Noi Shabu, located on Phalochai Road in the Mueang district, when 30-year-old Panupon Khokluecha, the restaurant’s owner, reported the break-in to the police on January 13.
The theft occurred late on the night of January 12, when Natthaphon allegedly used a stone to smash the glass doors of the restaurant, which included a door from his former workplace. The thief managed to steal 1,000 baht in coins, which were used for giving change to customers. The damage to the glass was estimated at over 10,000 baht.
Following the report, Police Lieutenant Colonel Methee Nasaree, the Deputy Inspector of Investigation at the Mueang Ubon Ratchathani Police Station, led an investigation using CCTV footage from the restaurant. This footage eventually led to the identification and arrest of Natthaphon Wongko at his apartment in the same district.
During questioning, Natthaphon confessed to the crime, admitting that he used a stone to break the glass doors and steal the money from the restaurant. He explained that he was desperate for money to pay for his accommodation with his girlfriend, as he is currently unemployed. He also confessed to committing a similar crime at another restaurant, Supstar Shabu, where he previously worked as a head waiter. In that incident, he stole 20,000 baht, which he has since spent.
Authorities have charged Natthaphon with nighttime theft involving breaking barriers designed to protect individuals and property. Additionally, he faces charges for using a vehicle to facilitate the crime or escape capture. He remains in custody as legal proceedings continue.
In a related report, two foreign men were involved in a vandalism incident at the Birds Cafe Restaurant in Phuket on September 30 of the previous year, where they shattered glass windows, disturbing staff and local residents. This incident also prompted a police investigation.