Bangkok Police Arrest Nigerian Thief, Recover Stolen Motorcycle
A Nigerian national, identified as 26-year-old Motasem Al Manaseer, was apprehended in Chumphon, Thailand, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, following a bizarre incident that revealed a string of alleged thefts. What began as a disturbance outside a convenience store escalated into a full-blown police investigation, culminating in the recovery of a stolen motorcycle and a cache of other pilfered items.
The incident unfolded Saturday morning at a Home Fresh store in the Na Thung sub-district of Muang district. Tourist police responded to reports of a foreign tourist causing a commotion and damaging property. Officers encountered Mr. Al Manaseer, whose erratic behavior and contradictory statements raised concerns. Recognizing the need for further investigation, the tourist police, led by Pol Lt Col Wachirapisak Na Songkhla, enlisted local authorities to subdue Mr. Al Manaseer and transport him to a hospital for observation.
The situation dramatically shifted when Chaiya district police contacted their Muang district colleagues, seeking assistance in apprehending a foreign national suspected of motorcycle theft. The description matched Mr. Al Manaseer, already in custody for his disruptive behavior at the convenience store. This connection became a significant lead in the motorcycle theft case.
The subsequent investigation confirmed authorities' suspicions. Mr. Al Manaseer was formally arrested, and the stolen motorcycle was recovered. A hidden compartment within the motorcycle contained 16 additional items believed to be stolen. This discovery clearly implicated Mr. Al Manaseer, transforming him from a disruptive tourist into a suspected inter-district thief. He was transferred to the Chaiya police station to face legal proceedings related to the alleged thefts.
This incident highlights the collaborative efforts of Thai law enforcement agencies, effectively connecting seemingly unrelated events to uncover a wider pattern of criminal activity. The tourist police’s alertness, coupled with swift inter-district communication, proved crucial in apprehending the suspect and recovering stolen property. While the investigation continues, Mr. Al Manaseer’s arrest provides closure for theft victims and reinforces Thai authorities' commitment to maintaining law and order. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and cooperation in combating crime, especially in tourist areas. The full extent of Mr. Al Manaseer’s alleged criminal activities remains to be determined.
