Bangkok Police Bust Notorious Motorcycle Theft Gang in Major Operation
Bangkok, May 22 — Bangkok police have successfully dismantled a notorious motorcycle theft ring responsible for a string of crimes across the capital, arresting key suspects and seizing stolen vehicles and parts.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Siam Boonsom, along with senior officials, announced the arrest of Somsak, 45, known by the alias Ood, and Ting Ko Ko Oo, 40, on May 21. The duo was apprehended in Soi Lat Phrao 119, Khlong Chan, Bang Kapi district, where officers discovered four stolen motorcycles and numerous dismantled parts.
The investigation was launched after a theft was reported on April 24 in the Samran Rat district. CCTV footage captured two men, disguised in long-sleeved jackets, jeans, and full-face helmets, stealing a motorcycle and fleeing towards Soi Lat Phrao 119. Surveillance and intelligence operations led to the suspects’ arrest.
During questioning, both men confessed to a series of thefts. Their method involved using a modified metal spike to break motorcycle ignitions, allowing them to quickly ride off with the stolen vehicles. They typically struck during nighttime hours, targeting dormitories, residential areas, and rental properties.
After the thefts, the suspects transported the bikes to Soi Nawamin 47, where they were dismantled and sold for parts. Police traced the distribution of the stolen parts to Mae Sot district in Tak province, a known transit point for illicit goods.
Their most recent spree included the theft of three motorcycles in a single night, targeting areas under the jurisdictions of Pratunam Chulalongkorn, Samrong Tai, and Prachachuen Police Stations.
Both suspects have been charged with theft and are currently in the custody of investigators at Samran Rat Police Station for further legal proceedings.
In a related operation on May 7, police arrested another gang involved in motorcycle theft and illegal cross-border sales. That raid, led by Lt. Gen. Boonsom and carried out by the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s 8th Division and Sam Sen district officers, resulted in the capture of three suspects. Among them was Wuichai, alias Kee, a repeat offender with prior drug-related charges.
Authorities have pledged to continue cracking down on motorcycle theft networks, particularly those linked to cross-border criminal activities and organized dismantling rings.
