Thai Police Detain a Criminal Hiding in a Carnival Costume

Thai police dressed up as lion dancers to catch a serial thief of Buddhist artifacts.

Footage released by police shows officers, disguised in traditional red and gold lion costumes, performing a dance among festivalgoers. Approaching the suspect, one of the officers suddenly lunged at him, knocking him to the ground, and the arrest followed.

According to law enforcement, the 33-year-old man is suspected of three burglaries. The total value of the stolen property is estimated at approximately $64,000. Police noted that they had previously made several attempts to apprehend him, but each time the suspect spotted them and fled.

His whereabouts were determined after tracking the stolen amulets and learning that he regularly visits temples in Nonthaburi. After his arrest, the man admitted to committing thefts to buy drugs and participate in gambling. He was also reported to have previously been charged with drug-related crimes and burglaries.