Thai police have arrested eight suspects linked to a large-scale rental car theft operation that targeted at least 50 vehicles. The gang allegedly used falsified documents to re-register stolen cars before selling them online. Authorities estimate that the illegal enterprise generated over 40 million baht in revenue.
The investigation began in December when a car rental business owner in Chachoengsao province reported a stolen vehicle. The car was later discovered with a new registration number issued in Nakhon Pathom. The Department of Land Transport (DLT) confirmed that fraudulent documents had been submitted to facilitate the re-registration. Police launched a probe, ultimately tracking down and recovering the stolen car in Tak province after a high-speed chase.
According to Pol Maj Gen Khongkrit Loetsitthikun, commander of the Highway Police Division, eight of the nine suspects named in arrest warrants have been detained. Among them are Phattharada, 32, and Tharathep, 32, identified as the masterminds financing and overseeing the operation. Others allegedly involved in renting and stealing vehicles, forging registration documents, and handling online sales include Chokchana, 66, Ramphai, 30, Warut, 26, Ratthanaphon, 35, Sippawin, 32, Ramwirin, 30, and Chaiwat, 39. One suspect, Warut, remains at large.
Authorities believe the suspects used a coordinated system where stolen rental cars were quickly re-registered under false identities. The vehicles were then listed for sale on social media, often at prices well below market value. One buyer, intercepted by police in Tak, revealed that he had purchased a stolen car online for 300,000 baht.
The case highlights ongoing concerns over vehicle fraud and document forgery in Thailand. Officials are now working closely with the DLT to tighten regulations and prevent similar crimes in the future.
The arrests were made on Wednesday, and police continue to search for the remaining suspect. Several senior officials from the Highway Police Division and the Department of Land Transport were involved in the operation and subsequent investigation.
