DSI nabs alleged member of regional car theft gang
KING - OUA LAOHONG
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has arrested an alleged member of a car theft gang which jams remote locking signals to break in to vehicles
The gang steals vehicles to order for customers in neighbouring countries, investigators say
DSI chief Tarit Pengdity said the arrest of thongchai Katasila follows the agency's decision to take up reports of a gang stealing cars in Nakhon Ratchasima to sell across the border as a special case
Mr. Thongchai was nabbed late on Friday night in front of a house in Nonthaburi's Muang district for his alleged involvement in the theft of a Toyota Fortuner in Nakhon Ratchasima in late August 2012
Mr.Tarit said the suspect and his alleged accomplice, Tritosapol Wicheanroj, used remote-control keys to jam the locking mechanism of the Toyota Fortuner. They managed to prevent the car lock from engaging, allowing them to gain access to the vehicle
He said the suspect admitted to stealing Fortuner as well as a Toyota Vigo pickup truck from Big C branch in Nakhon Ratchasima
Mr. Tarit said Mr. Thonhchai and his alleged accomplice were employed by a car theft gang operating in the Northeast.
The gang receives orders from customers in neighbouring countries and Toyota Fortuner and pickup trucks were the most sought-after models, he said
DSI deputy chief Yanpol Yangyuen yesterday warned car owners to check their vehicles to ensure they are secured after parking
He said auto makers have been unable to tackle the jamming problem as remote control signals can be easily duplicated
"Car owners are asvised to look after their valuables as a supreme Court ruling says they cannot demand compensation from shopping mall operators if their cars are stolen" he said
"Some hotels and shopping centres do not issue parking tickets and do not provide security for car parks, making it easier for thieves to operate.
"When the cars are smuggled out of the country, they are as good as gone
Mr.Thongchai said at a press conference organised by the DSI that he stole from targeted areas such shopping mall car parks
The remote device, he said, could be used with any make of car