Suspect Nabbed In Yacht Burglary

CHALONG BAY: Police arrested a suspect yesterday in the theft of nearly 200,000 baht in cash and personal effects from a foreign flag yacht moored in this popular bay. Prakit Thongnok, 23, was charged in connection with a theft last month of items on board a yacht owned by Maria Gonzales. According to police, the suspect, a Songkhla native who works part-time for a Chalong boat operator, allegedly boarded Gonzales’ boat, King, on the evening of October 30 and stole cash and items valued at 199,000 baht. The vessel’s owner was ashore at the time. Among the items Gonzales reported missing were her French passport and driver’s license, a credit card, 14,000 baht and US$45 in cash, electronic equipment and fishing gear. Authorities were able to recover a satellite dish, tape player, fishing equipment and a watch when they apprehended the suspect. Local boat owners have become increasingly concerned over a rash of thefts aboard pleasure craft moored in Chalong Bay in recent weeks. Police did not comment on whether or not the suspect in custody was wanted in connection with other heists.