An overzealous mob sent a moto thief to hospital instead of jail in Takeo on Sunday.

The bike’s owner spotted the older thief making off on his Honda and shouted for help.

A mob of villagers managed to stop him and by the time police arrived, he had already been beaten to a pulp.

When his condition improves, he will be sent to the police station, the police said. It’s not yet clear who will pay his hospital bill.

CEN