Sun: Says he's a firearms enthusiast
What began as a traffic accident in Pattaya has rapidly escalated into a major criminal investigation after police uncovered illegal weapons and a large stockpile at a residence, along with possible links to cross-border scam networks.
The case centres on Sun Mingchen, a 31-year-old Chinese national whose overturned car in Chon Buri province led police to discover illegal firearms and triggered a widening probe into his activities, finances and associates.
The investigation began on the evening of May 8, when officers from Na Jomtien police station responded to reports of a sedan overturning in Chon Buri's Bang Lamung district. None of the occupants -- Mr Sun, who was driving, and a Taiwanese woman travelling with him -- were seriously injured.
However, officers became suspicious after discovering a handgun inside the vehicle. The find prompted police to detain Mr Sun and broaden the investigation.
