A 29-year-old man has been arrested following a dramatic attempted robbery at a gold shop in Mueang district, Yasothon province, Thailand.
The suspect, identified as Yotthana Hongthong, also known as “Sam,” entered the gold shop on April 21 disguised in a helmet and face covering. He brandished an object resembling a firearm and threatened shop owner Sukanya. However, Sukanya resisted and, with help from her nephew, managed to prevent any theft. The suspect fled the scene empty-handed on a motorcycle.
Yotthana, a resident of Phanom Phrai district in Roi Et province, was already known to authorities for previous drug-related activities. A warrant for his arrest was issued by the Yasothon Provincial Court the following day.
Police Major General Watthana Yijeen, Regional Commander of Police Region 3, ordered an urgent manhunt. Officers tracked Yotthana to Mukdahan province, where he was found hiding in a wooded area behind a petrol station in the Kut Khae subdistrict. He was allegedly preparing to flee across the border to a neighboring country. Authorities also seized the pickup truck used during his escape.
During questioning, Yotthana admitted to the robbery attempt, stating he was motivated by debt and the high value of gold. He confessed that the firearm used was unloaded and was only meant to intimidate.
The suspect was charged with attempted robbery, concealment of identity, and using a vehicle to evade capture. He has been handed over to the Yasothon Provincial Investigation Division for further legal proceedings.
Authorities continue to monitor gold shops across the region to prevent similar incidents, and enhanced patrols remain in place as a precaution.
