When life pushes someone into a corner, even the most disciplined person can snap. That’s exactly what happened early on July 10, 2025, in Lop Buri. A 66-year-old retired military officer, burdened by financial strain and health issues, tried to rob a convenience store—and failed.
The Crime Unfolds
At around 12:05 a.m., locals reported a man wielding a pistol inside a petrol station convenience store on Chomphon Pibulsongkram Road in Mueang Lop Buri. He demanded lights be switched off and tried to open the cash register—but came up empty-handed as panicked employees escaped to the back.
Here’s a snapshot of what went down:
| Time | What Happened |
|---|---|
| 12:05 a.m. | Gunman enters store, demands black-out. |
| Moments later | Employees flee; robber fails to access cash register. |
| Immediately after | He runs outside and flees in a grey Nissan van. |
| Soon after | Police locate vehicle on Naresuan Road near Khao Sam Yod. |
Arrest and Discovery
Police, led by Lieutenant Somnuk Kidtook, sealed off the area. Eventually, law enforcement caught up with the suspect at a junction on Naresuan Road, about a kilometer from the scene. He was found inside the van alongside his wife, who runs a nearby food stall.
In the vehicle, officers discovered a loaded .32‑calibre revolver with six rounds. The suspect, later identified as Komsonthi, was subdued and taken in for questioning.
Suspect’s Background and Motive
Komsonthi is a 66-year-old retired military officer, reportedly suffering from mental health challenges and bowel issues. His wife claimed he was acting normally up until the restroom break at the petrol station.
When questioned, Komsonthi made only one statement: “I needed money.” He seemed exhausted and unresponsive.
Police have formally charged him with carrying an unlicensed firearm in public. Charges for attempted armed robbery are still pending as detectives review surveillance footage and witness testimony.
The incident rattled the quiet early-morning calm in Lop Buri. Though no one was physically harmed, the psychological shock ran deep. Behind the failed robbery, this event highlights a painful reality: even those who once upheld the law can find themselves driven to its opposite by desperation.
Conclusion
In Lop Buri, a retired officer’s brush with crime ended in his arrest—not success. Financial hardship pushed him into a risky gamble, but strong police intervention and community alertness foiled his plan. As the investigation continues, this story is a reminder: we never know what struggle lies behind a person’s actions—and how thin the line can be between order and chaos.