Law
Manhunt Underway for Gold Heist Suspects in Chiang Khong
Authorities are searching for two suspects who stole over 13 million baht in gold from a Chiang Khong shopping mall before fleeing to Laos.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, police are actively pursuing two suspects involved in an armed robbery at a shopping mall in Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai province. The incident occurred on the evening of August 4, 2026, when the perpetrators seized 184 units of gold, valued at approximately 13,036,400 baht.
Police Major General Manop Senakul, Commander of Chiang Rai Provincial Police, stated that the suspects are believed to be Lao nationals. Following the robbery, they reportedly abandoned their motorcycle near the Mekong River and used a pre-arranged boat to cross into Huay Xai, Laos. Investigators have since recovered clothing items left behind by the suspects and are currently processing forensic evidence, including fingerprints, while coordinating with local rental agencies and immigration officials in Chiang Saen.
A reward of 100,000 baht has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspects. Thai authorities are currently working with their counterparts in Laos to locate and apprehend the individuals. For residents and travelers in the Chiang Rai border region, this event highlights ongoing security cooperation efforts between the two nations. While the suspects have been identified as likely having fled the country, the investigation remains active, and the final outcome regarding their capture and the recovery of the stolen property is yet to be confirmed.