Another Suspect Held as Pattaya Weapons Investigation Widened
Another Suspect Held as Pattaya Weapons Investigation Widened
BANGKOK, May 10, 2026 — Thai police have detained another suspect linked to an expanding investigation into military-grade weapons allegedly sold to a Chinese national in Chon Buri province, as forensic teams intensify analysis of explosives and firearms seized during recent raids.
Investigators said a suspect identified only as Sergeant Boy was brought in for questioning at Na Jomtien Police Station on Sunday over allegations he helped source firearms for Chinese suspect Mingchen Sun.
Authorities are also searching for another military-linked suspect known as Sergeant Haeb as the inquiry widens.
The investigation began after police arrested Mingchen Sun, 31, following a car crash in the Na Jomtien area of Chon Buri province. Officers inspecting the overturned vehicle discovered firearms and ammunition magazines, leading to further searches at a property in Huai Yai district.
Police later seized assault weapons, grenade-type devices, high explosives and bomb-making materials from the house, including 10 explosive items and large quantities of fuel.
Authorities said the suspect was later transferred to immigration detention after extended questioning. Investigators added that he appeared physically exhausted and required regular medication during detention.
On May 10, explosive ordnance disposal specialists from Thailand’s Office of Police Forensic Science conducted detailed examinations of the seized firearms, ammunition and explosives as investigators sought to trace the origins of the weapons and determine whether additional materials remain missing.
Police teams have also travelled to Sattahip district to locate navy personnel suspected of involvement in the alleged weapons supply network.
The operation follows earlier questioning of Chen, identified as a shooting instructor, Methee, a Royal Thai Navy petty officer, and Chamlong, who investigators said owned a bank account allegedly used in the transactions and helped deliver weapons to the Chinese suspect.
Investigators outlined what they described as a suspected procurement chain in which Chen allegedly contacted Methee to obtain firearms for Chinese buyers. Methee then allegedly coordinated with Sergeant Haeb, who in turn contacted Sergeant Boy to source the weapons.
Separately, immigration authorities revoked the visa of a Taiwanese woman travelling with Mingchen Sun at the time of the crash. Police said investigators had not yet determined whether she was directly involved in the case, but she remains detained pending further inquiry.
The case has also triggered scrutiny within the Royal Thai Police after investigators found that some seized firearms were registered to officers from the Metropolitan Police Bureau.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Siam Boonsom has appointed a six-member fact-finding committee to investigate whether serving officers were connected to the weapons recovered during the operation. Authorities said the committee had been ordered to urgently report its findings.
