Buddha images stolen in Bangkok

Buddha images stolen in Bangkok

BANGKOK (AP): A band of burglars broke into a Bangkok shop and stole six Buddha images and other religious artifacts worth 300,000 baht (US$7,500), police said on Monday.

Police said it appeared the burglars entered the building which houses the shop on Friday and hid somewhere inside after closing time. Police were alerted to the theft on Saturday, said an officer who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Crime is rising in Thailand as the severe economic crisis has left many people unemployed. Buddha images and amulets can command high prices from collectors and those who believe they have the power to protect against ailments, bad luck and evil.

The core of the teachings of Buddha, the founder of one of the world's great religions, was to shun material possessions and attachment and avoid greed, anger and foolishness.