A group of boys aged between eight and 15 years old has been apprehended by local authorities in Udon Thani for a series of burglaries in the neighborhood and involvement in drug use. The leader of the group, a 15-year-old named Puek (pseudonym), was arrested at 10:30 pm today by the investigative unit of the Udon Thani City Police.
The police confiscated various items from the gang, including a blue Yamaha Fino motorcycle, a yellow mountain bike, a hoverboard, and tools used for breaking and entering. Additionally, a set of clothes belonging to Puek was found at one of the burglarized houses.
The crime spree of the gang came to an end when they targeted the home of a 42-year-old local teacher, Wuthinan, and his 44-year-old wife, Juthathip. The couple was away from home for two weeks. The young criminals not only stole items valued at around 100,000 baht (US$2,813) but also engaged in a drug-fueled party, involving singing karaoke and playing games.
Puek confessed that he noticed the vacant house and decided to break in with his gang. They accessed the property by breaking the back door with a hammer and proceeded to ransack the house. The stolen items were taken to Puek’s residence, located approximately 500 meters away, to be sold.
Puek also admitted to consuming drugs at the crime scene, having purchased amphetamines from a friend in Udon Thani municipality for 50 baht per pill. He expressed remorse to the victims, promising to cease drug use and criminal activities.
Puek’s grandmother, a 56-year-old woman identified as Noy, acknowledged raising Puek since he was a young child. She expressed disappointment in his behavior, apologized to the victims, and pledged to better care for her grandson, guiding him toward a more positive path.
While saddened by the incident, the teacher, Wuthinan, showed understanding towards the young criminals. He expressed hope for their rehabilitation and urged other teachers and parents to take better care of their children to prevent them from straying down a similar path.
