Highways Department loses more than ฿30m of property due to theft

The Highways Department in Thailand has suffered a significant blow in 2022, with the theft of equipment resulting in losses of over 30 million baht. This marks an increase of 13 million baht compared to the previous year.

The items most frequently targeted by thieves include electrical wire, traffic signal equipment, transformers, steel mesh, and W-beam guard rails. In 2022, the department saw the theft of electrical wire worth approximately 13 million baht, transformers worth 8.2 million baht, steel worth 2.2 million baht, W-beam guard rails worth 1.5 million baht, and traffic signal equipment worth an additional 1.5 million baht.

The losses were most pronounced in Chon Buri province, followed by Bangkok and Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The Highways Department is seeking the cooperation of the public in protecting its property and keeping a lookout for thieves or vandals. They have set up a reporting system, and anyone who witnesses or suspects theft can call 1586 or 1193 at any time. By working together, the department hopes to mitigate the losses caused by theft and ensure the safety of its equipment and infrastructure.