Feb 28 • 05:00 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

‘You can’t hide from the invisible’: why Bangkok police make arrests in disguise

Bangkok police employed a unique undercover strategy during a lunar new year event, where they disguised themselves as lion dancers to catch a suspect.

In a fascinating undercover operation, police officers from Bangkok’s metropolitan bureau disguised themselves as lion dancers during a temple fair for the lunar new year. With little time for preparation, the officers, led by Captain Lertvarit Lertvorapreecha, donned spontaneous costumes to blend in with the crowd and track down a suspected thief known for evading capture. The improvisation worked effectively as they engaged with the audience, distracting attention from their true mission.

The operation culminated when the officers managed to wrestle the suspect to the ground, surprising him amidst the lively dance performance. He is now in custody, facing charges for stealing significant Buddhist artefacts valued at nearly £48,000. This incident highlights the innovative tactics used by law enforcement to tackle crime while minimizing public disruption and engaging community members, particularly in culturally significant events.

Such unconventional approaches to policing have drawn attention to the challenges that local law enforcement face in apprehending skilled criminals who exploit public settings. This operation signifies a growing trend among Bangkok police to adapt their strategies, merging cultural practices with crime-fighting techniques, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of their operations and demonstrating a proactive stance towards public safety during festive occasions.

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