A video released today by Thai police shows officers disguised as a lion dance troupe during the Lunar New Year approaching the suspect in Nonthaburi, the provincial capital bordering Bangkok.

The officer in the lion's head costume tackled and pinned the suspect to the ground. His colleagues immediately shed their costumes to assist and handcuff the man.

Thai police disguised as a lion dance troupe to arrest a theft suspect in Nonthaburi on 18/2. Video: Thai Police

Thai police accused the suspect of stealing numerous Buddhist-related antiques and two statues, 30 cm tall, with a total value of approximately 64,000 USD, during a home invasion in Bangkok. They gathered evidence indicating the suspect had repeatedly attempted to break into the house.

Officers spent weeks tracking the suspect before executing the arrest plan by disguising themselves as a lion dance troupe at a temple in Nonthaburi. According to Thai police, the 33-year-old suspect has a criminal record related to drugs and theft.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP)