Phuket police hunt handcuffed thief who fled from police vehicle at red light

PHUKET: A handcuffed man left behind only his slippers today when he jumped from a police pick-up truck while it was stopped at a red light.

Boonrit Boontang, 22, who has been evading police since his escape, had been arrested on July 15 for stealing a motorbike. He was being transferred to Phuket Provincial Court at about 11:30am when he ran off.

“He jumped from the police truck while we were sitting at the t-junction of Damrong Road, Palien Road and Ruamphattana Road, about two kilometers from the court,” said Sen Sgt Maj Ratanachai Maneerat of Thalang Police.

Mr Boonrit then disappeared into the forest by Baan Natkamon 2 housing estate, his hands still locked together.

About 30 officers from the Thalang and Phuket City police departments are searching the area for him, said Lt Col Rattaket Munmuang of the Phuket City Police.

The suspect was last seen wearing a brown t-shirt and pink pants. He is about 165cm tall and has a tattoo on each of his ankles.

Anyone who sees the suspect is urged to call the Phuket City Police at 076-212129.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong