Police Capture Fugitive ‘Poh’ in Dramatic Kratom Shop Arrest

Lat krabang: The manhunt for "Poh," a suspect in a high-profile rape case, came to a conclusion when Deputy Superintendent Jon and his team successfully apprehended him at a kratom shop in Lat Krabang. The operation, led by Deputy Commander Jhon, resulted in the arrest of "Poh" and the rescue of an 18-year-old woman from a potentially dangerous situation.

According to Thai News Agency, the arrest took place under the directive of Police General Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police. The operation involved various units, including the Metropolitan Police's Narcotics Suppression Center, who conducted a search at two kratom-selling establishments in the Lat Krabang-Rom Klao area.

The team arrested a total of five suspects during the operation. Among them was Mr. Po, alias "Poh," aged 19, a resident of Lat Krabang, who was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Min Buri Criminal Court for charges related to "jointly committing rape with characteristics constituting gang rape." Investigations uncovered a criminal history involving attempted murder, firearms offenses, theft, and rape.

The other suspects apprehended include Mr. Krit, age 28, Mr. Phum, age 19, Ms. A, age 17, and Ms. B, age 16, all residents of Bangkok. Suspects were charged with various offenses, including violations of the Customs Act and unauthorized sale of restricted goods. Authorities seized substantial quantities of kratom juice, cough syrup, and smuggled cigarettes during the operation.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Thanyapeerasith Julphipop, or "Inspector Jae," played a critical role in tracking down "Poh." Through diligent investigation, he identified "Poh" as a high-risk individual with a history of violent behavior and outstanding warrants. Despite the challenges in locating him, the investigative team shifted strategies, leveraging connections and frequent locations to trace his movements.

On August 14, 2026, the investigation's focus on a kratom shop yielded results when officers identified a man with a tiger tattoo on his left arm, confirming him as "Poh." Alongside him was an 18-year-old woman who had met "Poh" via social media just a day before. She reported feeling coerced into staying and drinking with him, prompting authorities to rescue her from the premises.

The successful operation not only led to the arrest of "Poh" but also highlighted the effectiveness of a coordinated investigative approach in tackling criminal activities in the region.