Thai Police Officer Lieutenant Colonel Aisuraya Datong (a.k.a. “Police Colonel Ya”) admitted his involvement in a gang stealing machinery in Bang Lamung, Chonburi. He publicly apologized to his superiors and acknowledged the damage caused to the police organization, claiming he was manipulated into participating in the crime due to financial troubles.
The investigation began after Datong was arrested following a warrant for charges including complicity in theft with others and receiving stolen property. Ten other suspects, previously apprehended in Bang Lamung, testified against him, claiming he orchestrated a theft at a recycled goods factory, involving heavy machinery valued at nearly 10 million baht.
On October 15, 2024, investigators interrogated Datong for two hours after transporting him from Udon Thani. He partially denied involvement, asserting he was only a facilitator, having been contacted by someone claiming to be the factory owner’s relative to help in relocating and dismantling electrical transformers for sale, which netted only a small share of the proceeds
Following this, the factory owner, Nares Jangruangpong, confronted Datong about the situation, during which Datong apologized and discussed compensating for the damages incurred.
Investigator reports indicated that the 11 suspects operated in groups, each unaware of the other, following orders from Datong, who exhibited considerable knowledge of industrial machinery, suggesting greater experience in the field prior to the heist.
By 10:00 AM, Datong was led by officers to reenact the crime scene at the factory, pointing out locations where the theft occurred, before being returned to the station for additional questioning and then sent to the Pattaya court.
In an interview with the press, Datong expressed remorse for his actions and regrets for the tarnishing of the police department’s reputation, emphasizing his belief that he was initially deceived into committing the crime.
