BANGKOK - A professional safecracker wanted for a string of robberies in a number of provinces has been arrested after robbing a Bangkok jeweller of more than 10 million baht.
5,000 pairs of women panties found in the suspect's closet
Surprised police also found more than 5,000 pairs of women's panties in a closet at his home, reports said.
Bangkok police chief Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit Thupkrachang on Friday announced the arrest of Danai Raiweth, 48, who was wanted for several robberies.
The suspect broke into Basel Co Ltd in Don Muang district on the night of Oct 11 and made off with jewellery and cash worth over 10 million baht from the company's safe.
He was identified from pictures taken by the security cameras installed in the building. Police said the suspect has several outstanding warrants against him. He is wanted in at least four provinces for multiple robberies.
He was arrested several times but always fled after being allowed bail, police said. Police said Danai is very skilled at cracking safes.
Police raided the suspect’s home in Klong Samwa district, where he tried to escape by climbing down a rope from his bedroom window, but he fell and broke his leg.
Police found many stolen items and safe cracking tools at his house, and were also surprised to find more than 5,000 pairs of women's panties in his closet.
The suspect admitted he had been stealing since he was aged 18. He said he learnt how to crack safes when he spent time in Lad Yao prison, police said.
He admitted to stealing money and jewellery to find money for his frequent visits to casinos in Cambodia. As for the women's underwear, the suspect said he collects panties as a hobby.