A thief looking out for his own safety wound up surrendering his well-being after a helmet stealing attempt ended with a vigilante beating in the capital’s Prampi Makara district on Wednesday.

The would-be victim spotted the thievery on a security camera, immediately rushing outside and bellowing for help. Nearby villagers were happy to oblige, apprehending the alleged burglar and rewarding him with a few choice punches.

The bankrupt burglar told police he stole the helmet in order to pay for his lunch. But his sob story didn’t get him far, as cops sent him to the commune police station.

Koh Santepheap