Ratchaburi: The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has issued a warning that stealing government property is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years, following recent incidents of theft on the Nakhon Pathom-Hua Hin double-track railway project.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Methaphat Sunthornwaraphas, Director of Public Relations at the SRT, disclosed that complaints had been received from residents in Ratchaburi Province about lighting issues on the railway project, specifically around the Ban Pho Kiao horseshoe bridge in Pak Tho District. This bridge is part of the 169-kilometer route from Nakhon Pathom Station to Hua Hin Station, under SRT’s jurisdiction. An investigation revealed that the lighting problem was due to illegal cutting of electrical wires, posing potential dangers to pedestrians.
In response, the SRT filed a complaint with Pak Tho Police Station, leading to the arrest of two suspects on February 6, 2026. The suspects, Mr. Sulak, 37, and Mr. Yutthana, 40, were charged with jointly committing theft at night. Evidence, including 20 meters of electrical wire and crime-related tools, was seized. They were subsequently handed over to the investigating officer for further legal actions.
Mr. Methaphat emphasized that theft of SRT’s power cables and equipment is a recurring issue, classified as a crime under the Criminal Code. Such offenses are punishable by imprisonment ranging from 1 to 5 years and a fine between 20,000 to 100,000 baht, based on Section 335 (10) of the Criminal Code. Those purchasing stolen government property may be charged with receiving stolen goods, with penalties of 6 months to 10 years of imprisonment or a fine from 10,000 to 200,000 baht, as per Section 357.
The SRT is urging public cooperation in safeguarding government property and has coordinated with local police to patrol theft-prone areas. Theft not only harms government assets but also jeopardizes commuter safety. Suspicious activities should be reported to the SRT Call Center at 1690 or the police at 191, both available 24/7.