Village Assistant Surrenders in Gang Robbery Case Against Myanmar Workers, Claims He Was Warned
A village assistant was arrested in connection with a gang robbery targeting Myanmar workers' homes in Tha Sae District, claiming he was unaware of the crime and remained in a vehicle during the alleged heist. Three other suspects are being
On May 20, 2025, Chumphon police reported the latest developments in an ongoing investigation into a gang and village officials who allegedly stormed and robbed homes of Myanmar workers in Tha Sae District. The fourth suspect—a village assistant—was arrested on warrant before surrendering at Tha Sae Police Station amid intensive questioning, as his statements contradicted existing evidence. Three other suspects were remanded to Chumphon Provincial Court for trial without bail, after police opposed their release citing the severity of charges and risk of witness interference.
The case stems from allegations that the gang, working with village officials, invaded a rubber plantation in Tambon Rab Ro, Tha Sae District, and robbed Myanmar workers of multiple valuables including a safe. Police, led by deputy investigators Nithikhot Srisang and Wiwat Chimmanee, tracked suspects through CCTV footage and witness accounts.
Police previously arrested Anucha Chachai, alias "Not," 32, a gang associate, seizing rings, necklaces, cash, a black Toyota Vigo Champ truck, and other items. They also arrested Santinaiya Praserit, alias "Gla," 34, from Lamae District, recovering a .45 caliber handgun and an iPhone 11. Both face charges including armed robbery while impersonating police or military, vehicle use in crime, illegal detention, threats, and illegal firearm possession.
On May 18, Chalermpol, alias "May," 35, from Tha Sae District, voluntarily surrendered. On May 20 at 2 p.m., police arrested Ram Muadpakdi, 41, a village assistant from Tambol Sonphee Noi, Tha Sae District, following his brother's facilitation of his surrender.
During interrogation, Ram claimed he visited Gla's house because they trained together in reserve work 10 years prior. He stated Gla invited him to "check news," but he only intended to visit and watch fireworks. Ram alleged he knew nothing of robbery plans, which were the gang's responsibility. He claimed that upon arriving at the Myanmar worker's home, Not immediately turned the truck into the property, and while Not and May spoke with the workers, Ram remained seated in the vehicle. He alleged he only saw Not return, open the truck, and unload a safe alone.