Man Arrested for Stealing Donation Box at Bangkok Temple

On July 28, 2026, authorities from the Bang Khen Police Station announced the arrest of a 34-year-old man, identified as Thanet, within the grounds of Wat Siriphong Thammanimit in Bangkok. The arrest follows an investigation into a theft that occurred on July 19, 2026, at approximately 3:05 a.m.

According to Khaosod Online, security footage from the temple’s religious school building captured a man wearing a white t-shirt and black trousers breaking into a donation box. The suspect reportedly pried the box open, stole the contents, and fled the scene by climbing over the temple wall before escaping in a taxi. Police identified the suspect after he allegedly returned to the temple premises on the evening of July 27. Upon questioning, the suspect reportedly confessed to the theft, stating that the stolen funds were used for online gambling until they were exhausted.

For residents and visitors, this incident highlights the importance of temple security in urban areas. While the suspect is now in custody, the total amount of money stolen remains a detail to be confirmed by official police reports. Travelers visiting local temples are reminded to remain vigilant regarding their personal belongings, as public religious sites remain open spaces. The investigation is ongoing as authorities process the evidence collected from the scene.