Police on November 30 arrested six men accused of stealing beer from a container train at Hat Yai Train Station, even as the region continues to battle severe flooding. Authorities say they are still searching for the ringleader and additional suspects.
The incident drew national attention after videos circulated online on November 28, showing several Thai men unloading crates of beer from four railway containers and carrying them away. The theft occurred just one kilometre from Hat Yai Police Station.
The Facebook page Army Military Force alleged that the individuals seen in the footage were residents of Area 8 — the same neighbourhood where rescue teams previously reported gunfire and threats during flood evacuation efforts.
This theft followed another controversy days earlier, when locals were seen taking food, drinks, and alcohol from a flooded 7-Eleven store after its glass entrance shattered from rising water. The events sparked widespread debate, with some insisting residents were desperate for necessities, while others argued the acts were criminal — especially in cases involving alcohol, which is not essential for survival.
Public criticism intensified as many questioned whether CP All, the operator of 7-Eleven, or beer manufacturers would file complaints.
Piti Bhirombhakdi, Deputy Managing Director of Boon Rawd Brewery, addressed the issue on Facebook, clarifying that while the company had deployed its volunteer group Singha Arsa to support flood victims, free beer was not part of the aid. He confirmed the brewery would pursue legal action.
Following that statement, Provincial Police Region 9 officers raided homes in Area 8 and arrested six suspects: Jaroon Suwanmanee, Prasin Chaicharnyut, Mongkhon Saetan, Warinthorn Leng-ei, Suchart Itsadun, and Piyapong Noodaeng.
Police recovered large quantities of Chang beer, and although the suspects initially claimed they acted out of food and water shortages, authorities believe the volume of beer indicated an intention to resell.
The suspects were charged under Section 340 of the Criminal Law for conspiring with more than three people to commit theft — an offence punishable by 10 to 15 years in prison and fines between 200,000 and 300,000 baht.
Channel 7 reports that the search continues for the group’s ringleader and other accomplices.
As for the 7-Eleven looting incident, CP All has not yet taken legal action against individuals seen taking items from the flooded store.
