Burglar’s past catches up with him, as do police

A spate of house burglaries proved third time unlucky for a Poipet thief who was nabbed for the thefts more than two months after the crafty crimes. Military police in Banteay Meanchey said a 22-year-old man had broken into three houses in June and July to steal things and was involved in some other devious dealings around town. An investigation led to the man’s arrest last Wednesday and he was sent to court. Koh Santepheap

Thick as thieves? Only until trouble arrives

An alleged first-time house burglar found there was no honour among thieves when his partner in crime left him to face a group of angry neighbours in Phnom Penh’s Daun Oebh district on Saturday. The 18-year-old novice broke into a resident’s house while the owner was sound asleep. Meanwhile, his burglar buddy kept watch outside but fled when the owner woke up and yelled for help. Vigilant neighbours ran in and held the nervous crook until the police arrived. The suspect said he was jobless and broke — and perhaps minus a friend, as well.  Nokorwat

Drugs send long-time inmate back to jail

A recent jailbird was out of the slammer for just two weeks before his old ways got the better of him. Police in Battambang said they picked up the man on Tuesday night with a small package of drugs that he confessed he was trying to sell. Undeterred by his undoubtedly unpleasant six years behind bars, the 28-year-old was sent back to court, with the grim prospect of going back to where he came from. Koh Santepheap

Drunken demands lead to assault, court date

A man with an alleged history of hitting his wife was sent to court last week after yet another assault. Police said the woman’s leg had been broken a few months ago during an argument. This time, the haranguing husband used a rice pot to beat her. The 50- year-old is reported to have demanded his wife make him some food after he came home drunk, and went for her when she refused. Police said the couple were known to drink and argue, and sent him to court. Koh Santepheap

Truck driver flees on moto after deadly crash

Speed got the better of a 21-year-old motorbike driver in Kampong Cham town last weekend when he plunged head on into a truck and was killed. The revhead’s free-wheeling driving style saw him overtake a worrying number of vehicles up until the collision. The truck’s anxious driver jumped out and escaped on a moto, leaving his vehicle at the scene. Nokorwat

Translated by Phak Seangly