Police arrest man for stealing water meters across Prachuap Khiri Khan
Police have arrested a man for stealing water meters across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with investigators alleging he sold burnt components for scrap to fund drug use.
Officers from Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station detained a 38-year-old suspect, identified only as Anan, on 14 April. The arrest was led by Pol. Col. Paitoon Promkian and a team of investigators following a series of thefts reported across the province.
The case relates to multiple incidents between March and April in which water meters were stolen from homes in Prachuap Khiri Khan Municipality and nearby areas, including Ao Noi, Khlong Wan, Huai Yang, Kui Buri and Thap Sakae. The thefts caused disruption to residents, many of whom were left without a functioning water supply.
Investigation into water meter thefts across Prachuap Khiri Khan
Police said CCTV footage played a key role in identifying the suspect. He was later arrested at his home in Moo 4, Ban Nong Bua, in Ko Lak subdistrict.
During a search of the property, officers recovered four water meters, 24 burnt meter components, four methamphetamine pills and a Honda Wave 110 motorcycle believed to have been used in the offences. Investigators also found a pile of ashes behind the house containing burnt parts, which were collected as evidence.
A drug test returned a positive result. According to police, the suspect admitted carrying out multiple thefts in different areas. He told officers he would break apart and burn the meters to extract copper for sale, before using the proceeds to buy methamphetamine.
The suspect has been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings.
