Teenagers Nabbed in Trang After Driving Off With Stolen Rescue Van
Two teenagers in Thailand found themselves in serious trouble after being caught driving a stolen rescue van from Krabi to Trang. The pair, aged 17 and 19, had run out of petrol and called the police for assistance, but their suspicious story quickly unravelled.
The incident happened in Kantang district, Trang province, when local officers were alerted about a van stranded at Wang To intersection. The vehicle, a Toyota rescue van with markings from the Klong Thom Krabi Rescue Association, was parked on the roadside. The teenagers, dressed casually and claiming to be volunteers, told police they were transporting a corpse from Krabi to Kantang.
Rescue Van Mystery Uncovered
Their explanation immediately raised doubts as they carried no identification, cash, or mobile phones. When authorities contacted the van’s organisation, it was revealed that the vehicle had been reported stolen just hours earlier from Phla Temple in Krabi. The van is normally used to transport villagers to hospitals and had been left with keys inside for emergency volunteer use.
Police later confirmed that no official mission had been scheduled, exposing the teens’ excuse as false. The duo then changed their story, saying they had only intended to visit relatives in Kantang and planned to return the van the next day. However, they admitted running out of money after failing to find their relatives.
Legal Action Underway
Both teenagers were taken into custody and now face legal charges. Local rescue unit volunteer Thanakrit Bamrungchu explained that the centre is still under construction and awaiting proper registration, but the van remains crucial for community medical transport.
The theft has sparked outrage as the rescue vehicle was meant to save lives, not be misused for joyrides. Authorities have stressed that such reckless acts put communities at risk and vowed to pursue the case to its full legal extent.
The case has since gained attention in Thailand, with many pointing out the dangers of leaving emergency vehicles with keys inside, even if for urgent use.