Four Police Officers Suspended Pending Investigation in Chinese Nationals Abduction and Extortion Case
Four police officers have been suspended following their arrest for abducting and extorting five Chinese nationals in Saraburi Province, with all suspects confessing to charges including unlawful confinement and abuse of authority.
Four police officers have been suspended from duty following their arrest in connection with the abduction and extortion of five Chinese nationals held captive in Wang Sombun District, Saraburi Province. The officers were accused of using coercive measures to confine the victims and threatening them to extort ransom money in exchange for their release. On May 21, 2025, Deputy Police Commissioner Napawat Ariyangkul signed National Police Office Order No. 221/2569 suspending four officers: Detective Lieutenant Wuttikorn Wongthum, a team leader in crime prevention at Khlong Hat Police Station, Saraburi; Detective Lieutenant Somchai Yukhong, a team leader in crime prevention at Khlong Hat Police Station; Detective Lieutenant Pichetsathit Sengsoon, a team leader in crime prevention at Ban Plaeng Police Station, Chachoengsao; and Detective Lieutenant Pabhawin Prachueatngern, a team leader at Highway Police Station 3 Division 3 of the Highway Police Bureau.
The officers face serious disciplinary charges and are accused of jointly confining others unlawfully, abusing their authority as officials, extortion, and misconduct in office. All four suspects have confessed to the charges and have been in custody since May 16. The case has drawn significant public attention and raised serious concerns about institutional credibility. The order states that allowing the officers to continue their duties could cause further damage, justifying their suspension pending the outcome of the disciplinary investigation.
Detective Lieutenant Pabhawin was previously suspended under a separate order dated May 18, 2025, by the Highway Police Bureau. Separately, the National Police Office has also appointed an investigation committee under Order No. 220/2569, chaired by Police Colonel Ekasit Toaditetep, Director of Investigation and Inspection Division 1 under the National Police Office's Inspection Bureau, along with five other committee members to expedite fact-finding across all dimensions of the case.
The Police Commissioner has instructed the investigation proceed with full transparency and speed. Authorities have been directed to immediately report any additional police officers or individuals found to be involved so that criminal proceedings can be expanded without any omissions.
