Law
Mysterious Theft of Spirit House Figurines in Chachoengsao
A business owner in Chachoengsao discovered that all spirit house figurines had been stolen, replaced only by mysterious stone-like objects.
On August 28, 2026, Khaosod Online reported a bizarre incident in Bang Khwan, Chachoengsao, where a local business owner, Mr. Nawin, discovered that all figurines representing ancestral spirits and guardian deities had been removed from his spirit houses. The discovery occurred on the morning of the Hungry Ghost Festival (Sart Chin) when Mr. Nawin arrived to present offerings.
According to the report, the figurines from both the spirit house and the Brahma shrine were missing. In their place, two objects resembling 'bai sema' (boundary stones) were left behind. Mr. Nawin expressed his confusion on social media, questioning the motive behind such an unusual theft. He has since acquired new figurines, which are currently awaiting a formal consecration ceremony before being placed inside the shrines.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the importance of respecting local customs and the sanctity of spirit houses, which are ubiquitous in Thailand. While the motive remains unclear—whether it was a prank, a theft for resale, or related to superstitious beliefs—the event has sparked significant local discussion. As of now, the identity of the individual or group responsible for the removal of the original figurines remains unconfirmed, and no official police report regarding the recovery of the items has been issued.