Section 355 — Converting hidden found property
English translation
Whoever finds valuable movable property that is hidden or buried under circumstances in which no person can claim to be its owner, and dishonestly converts that property to himself or to another person, shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding one year, or a fine not exceeding twenty thousand baht, or both.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
Section 355 is a lesser form of misappropriation dealing with found property. Its elements are: the property is valuable movable property, it was hidden or buried in circumstances where no one can claim ownership, the offender found it, and he dishonestly converted it to himself or another. It sits alongside Section 352 but carries a lighter penalty, one year rather than three, because the found property has no identifiable present owner in possession. The provision covers items such as concealed treasure or valuables uncovered by chance, and like the rest of the chapter it is compoundable under Section 356.
Why this matters in practice
Penalty exposure here is low, capped at one year or a twenty thousand baht fine, and the offence is compoundable under Section 356, so settlement usually resolves it. The dishonesty element is the practical battleground: a finder who takes reasonable steps rather than secretly keeping valuable hidden property has a defence. Because the property is by definition without a present claimant, disputes often turn on who, if anyone, can lawfully assert ownership. Anyone unsure whether a find has crossed into criminal territory should review the general position on criminal law in Thailand.
Frequently asked questions
How is Section 355 different from ordinary misappropriation?
It applies specifically to valuable movable property that was hidden or buried and has no claimable owner, and it carries a lighter penalty of up to one year rather than the three years under Section 352.
Is keeping valuable found property always a crime?
Only if the finder acts dishonestly. Section 355 requires dishonest conversion of hidden or buried valuables, so a finder who behaves reasonably rather than secretly keeping the property has a defence.