A Thai court sentenced Chinese national, Sun Mingchen, to 46 years in prison for illegally possessing a large cache of weapons at his property in Chon Buri. The motive behind the extensive stockpile is still under investigation.
The case emerged in May after Sun crashed his car in Sattahip district. Police responding to the accident found a Glock 26 pistol and ammunition inside the vehicle, prompting a wider investigation.
Officers later searched his home and seized a large quantity of military-grade equipment, including C4 explosives, M16 and M4 firearms, anti-personnel grenades, bulletproof vests, chemical masks, radio signal jammers, remote-control transceivers and ammunition.
The scale of the seizure raised questions about the purpose of the collection, but investigators have yet to determine a motive.
The investigation also found that Sun held more than one nationality and had travelled between Thailand and Cambodia. Police said he also possessed a pink identification card issued to people without Thai nationality.
Investigators are continuing to examine the source of the seized weapons. Police previously said the inquiry had identified soldiers and police officers linked to supplying firearms to the accused.
During questioning, Sun reportedly denied planning to use the weapons against anyone. He told investigators he had collected them because he intended to use them for self-harm.
Sun remained in custody while the investigation continued. On May 11, he was transferred from Pattaya Prison to hospital after suffering a seizure and losing consciousness.
Medical staff suspected he had taken an excessive amount of medication for a congenital medical condition. After his condition improved, he was returned to prison.
Yesterday, the Pattaya Provincial Court sentenced Sun to 46 years’ imprisonment for offences relating to the illegal possession of weapons.
The court also ordered the confiscation of all seized items, including the 9mm Glock pistol, M4 and M16 firearms, ammunition, anti-personnel grenades, C4 explosives, bulletproof vests, chemical masks, radio signal jammers, remote-control transceivers and other military equipment.
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