Key Southern Thai Fugitive Apprehended in Chiang Mai, Ending Multi-Regional Manhunt

CHIANG MAI — A high-profile fugitive from Thailand’s deep south who managed to evade law enforcement for years has finally been arrested. Heavily armed special operations police swarmed a hidden home in the northern province on July 16, ending a multi-regional manhunt. The successful raid took place in the quiet district of San Sai. Local authorities confirmed the suspect was hiding deep within the community to escape serious criminal charges. According to official police reports, the intelligence sharing between regional police divisions proved vital in tracking down the heavily wanted individual. Major General Jitphisut Imsanguan, the Commander of the Investigation Division of Provincial Police Region 5, spearheaded the operation. The mission began after his office received urgent intelligence from Police Region 9 in the south. The data revealed that 48-year-old Naradet, also known locally as “Ko,” was hiding in the Mae Faek sub-district. Naradet, originally a resident of the Kong Hra District in Phatthalung province, carried a dangerous reputation. He had successfully run from five active arrest warrants. His criminal record listed violent assault, firearms violations, and multiple theft offenses. Once the exact hiding place was confirmed, Major General Jitphisut ordered an immediate and decisive strike. He deployed the heavily armed “Yakkharaj 49” special operations team to prevent any chance of escape. Tactical officers quickly surrounded the targeted house before launching a fast, synchronized breach. The elite officers managed to secure the property and neutralize the threat without any casualties. Naradet was taken into custody immediately during the surprise morning assault. Police confirmed that the suspect offered no resistance once he was surrounded by the armed tactical team. Following the arrest, the tactical team transported Naradet to the local police station. Officers handed the suspect over to legal investigators to process his warrants. He will now be transferred back south to face formal prosecution for his long list of outstanding crimes. Residents expressed relief to reporters from Thai Post after learning that a dangerous fugitive had been safely removed from their neighborhood.