PATHUM THANI - Police used rowing boats to corner a handbag snatcher who jumped into the Chao Phraya River in a bid to avoid arrest on Tuesday, a report said.
Chatree Aungern, 36, allegedly approached Supatra Jaritngarm, 27, on his motorbike and snatched her bag while she was waiting for a bus on Pathum Thani Road in Sam Khok district.
The thief fled down a riverside road, the victim told the police. She added that there were two mobile phones, two debit cards, and about 5,000 baht in cash inside the handbag.
Police tracked the man down and found out he lived in a house alongside the Chao Phraya River, according to the report in Matichon.
A dog near the house barked as police approached the building, alerting the man who fled from his hammock and jumped into the river.
Police searched the home and found the stolen handbag. The mobile phones were missing.
They said Mr Chatree dived under the platform of a neighbouring house. He was spotted and immediately swam out into the river, heading for the other side.
Pol Lt Col Chaiyan Daoruang, Inspector at Sam Khok police station, said police eventually comandeered row boats and used them to corner the man.
Mr Chartree allegedy told the police he had stolen items from people on many ocassions since he was released from prison two years ago. He pawned stolen phones to get cash.
Police said other victims can contact Sam Khok police station to claim their belongings.