Reporters failed to catch a glimpse of the senior official who was released from Japan as he took a VIP exit from Suvarnabhumi Airport when he arrived back in Bangkok Saturday.
The Thai Consulate of Osaka successfully settled the case with Kyoto Police and the hotel where Suphat Sanguandeekul, deputy director-general of the Department of Intellectual Property, allegedly stole three paintings. He was released soon after.
Suphat arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport on the night of Jan. 28. Media waiting at the arrival gate were disappointed to find out that Suphat was escorted out through a VIP exit to avoid facing cameras and questions.
Suphat was detained by Kyoto police on Jan. 24 after the hotel operator caught him on security cameras stealing paintings from the hotel. The three paintings were estimated at only THB4,600 in total.
Deputy Commerce Minister Sonthirat Sonthijirawong said a committee will be appointed to determine Suphat’s disciplinary punishment, Matichon reported.
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