Rent, Steal, Sell: Couple Arrested in Pattaya Car Theft Scam
PATTAYA, Thailand – March 9, 2025 – A couple accused of orchestrating a car theft scam have been arrested in Pattaya after allegedly renting vehicles, disabling GPS trackers, and selling them on the black market. Their scheme spanned multiple provinces, including Chon Buri, Pattaya, Nonthaburi, and Kanchanaburi, with several victims reporting stolen vehicles.
Arrest and Investigation
Authorities arrested 48-year-old Thanakrit and 29-year-old Kanyakhorn at the Pattaya Highway Police Station in Nongprue, East Pattaya. The couple was wanted on an embezzlement warrant issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court. Police also seized a grey Toyota Yaris and two suspicious license plates believed to be connected to the crime.
The investigation began when police stopped a black Toyota on Highway No. 3 in Sattahip, Chon Buri province, after the vehicle made a sudden and suspicious lane change. Officers found Thanakrit driving with Kanyakhorn as a passenger. Upon conducting a routine check, authorities discovered that the license plate belonged to a completely different make and model, raising immediate suspicion.
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle had been reported stolen by its owner, Athit, who had filed a police report at Rattanathibet Police Station in Nonthaburi.
A Sophisticated Car Theft Operation
Authorities soon uncovered the couple’s wider operation, which involved:
- Renting cars from legitimate rental services
- Removing or disabling GPS tracking devices
- Selling the stolen vehicles on the black market
- Smuggling vehicles into neighboring countries like Myanmar and Cambodia
Police suspect the couple defrauded multiple victims, and investigations now span at least four provinces. More victims are expected to come forward as authorities uncover the full scale of the operation.
Stolen Car Recovered
Once police confirmed that Athit’s car was part of the scam, they coordinated its return, much to his relief.
Authorities continue to investigate potential accomplices and the extent of the stolen vehicle network, ensuring that all responsible parties are brought to justice.
