On June 6, 2025, a man came forward to claim ownership of 12 million baht in cash found near a condominium trash bin in Nonthaburi province, insisting the money is lawfully his and not linked to illicit activity.
A man who identified himself as the owner of 12 million baht in cash discovered near a garbage bin in a condominium complex in Nonthaburi has publicly confirmed that the money is his and legally obtained. The incident, which drew public attention after residents found a grey box filled with cash on June 5, 2025, occurred at Muang Thong Thani Condominium, Building P2, Zone C, in Pak Kret district.
Following the discovery, police officials including Pol Maj Gen Kittithanet Thananantawisin, Provincial Police Chief of Nonthaburi, and officers from Pak Kret Police Station conducted an inspection at the scene. Documents found with the cash identified the name of Mr. Taweewat (surname withheld), who later appeared at Pak Kret Police Station on the evening of June 6 to provide clarification.
Mr. Taweewat told officers he had accidentally discarded the box while disposing of water-damaged belongings from his unit, which had suffered flooding. The cash, he said, had been saved over several years since 2020 during his time working as a lawyer and later as an adviser to the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) since 2022.
He explained that he had stored various items including clothing, cash, and wine bottles in the box, intending to repair the wine case on an upcoming weekend. However, the flooding occurred before those plans materialized. Due to the layout of the building’s elevators, he had left the box near the bin closest to his unit, located in an odd-numbered wing, which he said was more accessible.
Taweewat added that he had owned the condominium since 1995 but had not lived there full-time for the past two years, allowing a friend’s family to stay in the unit. As for keeping large amounts of cash, he claimed it was initially meant for political purposes, although he also has over 10 million baht in a bank account. He said he withdrew the money gradually, with the largest single withdrawal occurring in 2020.
He insisted the cash was stored in the box for safekeeping, as he had already used his safe to hold important documents. Fearing theft, he chose a less conspicuous location for the cash, noting that Muang Thong Thani had a reputation for theft. To secure his belongings, he had installed a triple-locked door at the unit.
Taweewat emphasized that the money is entirely legitimate and documented, with some tax-related documents in the box bearing his name in connection with his NBTC role. He expressed frustration with media speculation suggesting the money might be “grey,” or unlawfully sourced. Some business owners and residents reportedly doubted his claims due to his infrequent presence at the building.
“I’m relieved that the money was found,” he told authorities, “and disappointed by suggestions that it might be tainted.” He reaffirmed that all funds were acquired legally.
