Bangkok: "Jok Rangmuang," a suspect in a child molestation and robbery case, has been arrested. Jok Rangmuang, a dangerous individual who was the subject of numerous social media warnings, has been apprehended by authorities. He is accused of committing indecent acts against a young boy and robbing a shop. He admitted to recently being released from prison for a drug-related offense, committing indecent acts with a child who came for a tattoo, and taking three methamphetamine pills before robbing the shop.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident unfolded when Mr. Jok attempted to ride his motorcycle away from the shop after filling up with two bottles of gasoline, ordering beer, and one ice cream cone. The shopkeeper tried to pull the handlebars, but Mr. Jok turned and reached for his waist. Fearing for her safety, the shopkeeper let him go. Upon recognizing him as the suspect from social media alerts, she immediately reported the incident to the police.
Police at Chom Bueng Police Station reviewed CCTV footage and tracked Mr. Jok riding a motorcycle behind a school in Chom Bueng Subdistrict. As the police pursued him, Mr. Jok abandoned his motorcycle and fled on foot but was eventually apprehended. Authorities seized a .38 caliber pistol, three rounds of ammunition, six methamphetamine pills, and the motorcycle.
Mr. Jok, also known as Mr. Waranyu, 36, previously lured three boys in the area and committed indecent acts against them. The boys' guardians reported the incidents to the police, resulting in an arrest warrant and a subsequent manhunt. Locals mentioned that Mr. Jok frequently begged for money and food, staying at friends' and relatives' houses, and even sleeping in temples. This behavior led to social media warnings about him.
Mr. Jok confessed to being released from prison less than a year ago for a drug-related offense. He had been working as a tattoo artist for teenagers and admitted to committing indecent acts with the children who came for tattoos. He also confessed to taking three methamphetamine pills before robbing the shop due to financial desperation. However, he claimed he was unaware of the arrest warrant. The police charged him with illegal possession of a firearm, indecent acts against a child, drug possession, drug use, and robbery, proceeding with legal action.