In a dramatic turn of events, a 37-year-old fugitive named Apichat, infamous for evading justice for nearly two decades, has finally been apprehended. His arrest has sparked interest nationwide, as it marks the end of an 18-year pursuit that began with a heinous crime involving a minor. The crime, which shook the Chachoengsao province back in 2006, seemed to have gone cold until Police Colonel Witthaya Sriprasertphap, head of the Crime Suppression Division, reignited the investigation with determination.
Apichat was wanted in connection with the coercion of a then 17-year-old girl, referred to as Bee, who he deceptively persuaded to join him on a visit to the popular Bang Saen Beach located in the Chon Buri province. What started as an innocent trip turned into a nightmare for Bee, as she later found herself alone with Apichat after a drinking session at his residence in Mueang district. This marked the beginning of her ordeal, as she fell victim to Apichat’s malicious intentions.
On the day of the crime, Apichat cunningly engineered circumstances to get Bee intoxicated. As her world spun under the influence of alcohol, Apichat took advantage of her vulnerability, leading her into a bedroom where the assault took place. Upon regaining her senses, a distressed Bee confided in her parents, prompting them to approach law enforcement at Chachoengsao city police station. However, Apichat promptly vanished, leaving law enforcement in the dust for almost two decades.
Years drifted by as Apichat lived under the radar, managing a semblance of normalcy even as a fugitive. That was until the tireless efforts of the police finally paid off on February 2, 2025. Acting on a warrant dating back to October 24, 2006, the arrest was executed with precision by Police Colonel Wiwat Jitsopakun and Police Colonel Warat Sermsujit. Apichat was detained outside a residence in Mueang district, Lop Buri province, thus ending his elusive escapade.
Facing interrogative questioning, Apichat eventually confessed, marking a significant victory for the relentless justice system. Subsequently, he was transferred to the custody of the Chachoengsao city police, where he is expected to face the legal consequences of his despicable actions. The apprehension not only brings closure to Bee, now well into adulthood but also demonstrates the resolve of the authorities to pursue justice unwaveringly.
In a parallel narrative of transgressions involving authority figures, a high school teacher in Phitsanulok province stands accused of a series of sexual assaults against a 13-year-old girl within the confines of an art classroom. The parents of the young victim filed a complaint at the Mueang Phitsanulok Police Station, urging them to intervene. Their intention to expose the misconduct extended to a leading news outlet, DailyNews, on January 21, seeking to galvanize the Ministry of Education into immediate action.
These unsettling stories form part of a broader mosaic of recent news that strikes a chord with the populace. From cannabis store burglaries in Pattaya and the tragic outcomes of highway accidents to the ongoing struggles against air pollution and the repercussions of illicit gambling operations, Thailand faces a myriad array of social challenges. Undoubtedly, capturing Apichat serves as a testament to the potent promise of resilience and the pursuit of justice in Thai society.
It’s about time this guy was caught. 18 years is way too long for a criminal to be on the run.
I know, right? Can’t believe he evaded the police for that long.
It really makes you question how efficient the police are.
True, but you have to admit, better late than never. Police persistence finally paid off!
Exactly! How much effort did they really put in initially?
Reading this makes you wonder how many other criminals are living free right now.
Probably more than we want to admit.
The system really needs a major overhaul!
The criminal justice system is overloaded everywhere. We need more resources.
Honestly, focusing on Apichat is a waste. We’ve got bigger problems like corrupt politicians.
I feel so bad for Bee. How she’s been coping all these years is unimaginable.
I agree, the trauma must’ve been severe. Hopefully, this brings her some closure.
I hope so too. Justice can be therapeutic.
This case highlights the importance of teaching young people to be cautious about whom they trust.
Couldn’t agree more. Trust needs to be earned, not given freely.
Police only succeeded due to a lucky break; it’s not as if they suddenly became competent.
Hey, credit where credit is due. They did get him!
Luck or skill, at least he’s behind bars now.
What about the teacher story? That deserves just as much attention as Apichat’s case.
True, abuse of power is a huge issue! Teachers should be trusted figures, not predators.
Exactly, we can’t let this be overshadowed by other news.
It’s crazy how someone can hide in plain sight for so long. Makes you wonder about the people around you.
You never really know a person, do you?
Good to know justice is served, but what now? How do we prevent future cases like this?
Education and stricter enforcement. Society needs to change its approach to such crimes.
Yeah, but that requires people to actually care to make changes!
Starts with awareness. More people need to speak up and get involved.
The whole situation with the cannabis store burglaries could have a link to crimes like these. The police are stretched thin!
That’s a leap! But I see your point about priorities.
I’m proud of Bee for coming forward. She’s so brave.
Her strength is inspiring for others who’ve been victims.
Absolutely, hope her story empowers others to speak out.
Did nobody ever recognize him? 18 years is a long time to go unnoticed!
Makes you question how much people really pay attention to their surroundings.
I’m relieved he’s caught, but nervous about how the legal process will unfold. Will the punishment fit the crime?
Let’s hope the justice system does its job properly this time.
Considering how packed prisons are, I wonder what his sentence will look like.
He better get the maximum sentence possible for what he did!
Agreed. Legal loopholes should not let him off lightly.