CCTV installer arrested after alleged Phuket theft spree and police chase
Chalong police say a CCTV installer wanted on two arrest warrants has been linked to five alleged thefts across Phuket.
A CCTV installer wanted on two arrest warrants has been arrested after allegedly fleeing a police operation in Chalong and being linked to five theft cases across Phuket, police said on 26 August 2026.
Chalong police said their investigative team located the suspect, identified only by the pseudonym “Chang Kluay”, at about 10.30am. When officers tried to surround him, he allegedly drove through the cordon, ramming a police vehicle.
Police said the vehicle’s tyres later burst, prompting the suspect to abandon it and flee on foot. Officers searched the area for more than an hour before locating him. He allegedly tried to escape again but was pursued and arrested.
According to police, the suspect worked as a CCTV installer and allegedly used access to customers’ premises to observe and memorise entrances, exits and other details before returning to carry out thefts. The alleged targets were mainly businesses, including cafes, hotels and cannabis shops.
Police said the suspect confessed during initial questioning. Investigators have linked him to five alleged thefts: three under Chalong Police Station, one under Phuket City Police Station and one under Kathu Police Station.
He initially faces multiple charges, including theft involving unlawful entry and the use of a vehicle, nighttime theft involving a vehicle, resisting or obstructing an officer using force or threats, property damage, possession of a Category 1 drug, methamphetamine, and driving under the influence of methamphetamine.
The investigation is continuing to determine whether he may be connected to other thefts, with Chalong police coordinating with other stations. Police urged homeowners and businesses to verify outside workers’ credentials and to change security-system passwords or access permissions after installation where possible.
Anyone with information or who believes they may have been a victim is asked to contact police. Emergency calls can be made to 191, while Chalong Police Station can be reached on 076-381247.
