KHON KAEN, Thailand – A housemaid working at a gold shop in Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen, was sentenced by the court to 235 years in prison without suspension after being caught stealing gold jewelry valued at 20 million baht, November 8. The thefts, totaling 700 baht weight in gold, have reportedly been ongoing since 2021. The housemaid, however, maintains her innocence and is appealing the case.
Suspicion arose on September 9 this year when the shop owner noticed a gold necklace fall from the maid’s apron in the kitchen area. When questioned, the maid claimed it must have accidentally fallen from the display case into her apron. After reviewing CCTV footage, the owner discovered repeated incidents of the maid intentionally taking gold items and placing them in her apron.
Further investigation revealed she had stolen gold on over 47 occasions, amassing a total of 700 baht weight.
Evidence from her social media suggested unusual spending habits, including posts showing land purchases, a new motorcycle, and her daughter wearing a large gold necklace.
The court ruled the maid guilty and ordered her to repay the remaining 18 million baht plus interest. Despite clear evidence, she plans to appeal. She has returned some assets, including 201 baht weight in gold jewelry and 1,100,000 baht in cash. Police in Ban Phai District have seized additional jewelry weighing 50 baht as evidence. (TNA)
