Khon Kaen burglary probe getting nowhere
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It has been three and a half weeks since our home was burgled, yet the case continues to drag on.
A safe was stolen with contents valued at between Bt3 million and Bt4 million, including passports, land deeds, home and vehicle books, gold and jewellery. We reported this to the local and provincial police and the military authority in Khon Kaen but there’s been no progress.
We are essentially 100 per cent sure who the perpetrators are and also that moves are being made to close the case by stalling as long as possible. A lower-ranking local police officer told us he was sure who had committed the crime and the gold was being sold in the province.
The tourist police and military advised us to relocate as soon as the case is closed. They are concerned about our safety.
Our house was not broken into and our two dogs must have known the person or persons responsible for the theft. We believe the thieves were familiar with the location of the safe as well.
The police initially responded favourably, conducting a thorough search and took fingerprints. The safe was soon found in a sugarcane field behind the house, with most of the documents intact, along with tools from my workshop used to break it open and a T-shirt that could be used for DNA testing.
The police interrogated several neighbours but have as yet made no arrests. Furthermore, they are treating us as if we are the suspects. The military in Nong Bua Lamphu assured us they would follow up. The commander of the provincial police denied there could be any corruption among his people.
We have had numerous meetings with the tourist police, TV Channels 3, 7 and 9, the military and Nong Bua Lamphu Special Investigations.
We have even offered a Bt300,000 reward. The initial officer assigned to the case was removed after two weeks, causing further delay and confusion.
Local police told us we had to pay for any fingerprint examinations and DNA testing but would not say how much. They also repeatedly asked how much money I make, which is none of their business. My wife is Thai and she loves her country. We both wish for a better Thailand that is for the people and not supportive of criminal elements.
Steve Betz
Phuket
