Bangkok hostage crisis ends with two dead, four injured
A tragic incident unfolded in Bangkok yesterday when Tha Kham Police Station received a report at 9.45pm about an armed man holding his family hostage at a residence in Rama 2, Bang Khun Thian. The man, identified as Bunma, a 49 year old printing shop owner, had a domestic dispute that escalated into violence.
Bunma fatally shot Police Lieutenant Colonel Kittichon Janyarom, the 59 year old Deputy Chief of Tha Kham Police Station, three times. Another officer, Pol. Snr. Sgt. Maj. Chaiyawat Atsophonwattana, was injured by shrapnel in his left thumb while attempting to intervene. Pol. Lt. Col. Kittichon was later pronounced dead at Mali Hospital, a police spokesperson said.
“We tried negotiating with him throughout the night, but he resisted surrendering and intermittently fired at officers.”
The standoff, which lasted until 5.50am today, July 23, ended after police used three stun grenades to storm the house. Officers found Bunma dead on a mezzanine with an unidentified firearm beside him.
Police later rescued four family members, including a 15 year old daughter who was injured by a gunshot to her face. One family member disclosed that Bunma possessed multiple firearms, including a .38 calibre, .9 calibre, .11 calibre, and a shotgun, along with various ammunition. The names of the hostages have not been released by the police.
A family member revealed that Bunma had not been taking his medication for a year, which reportedly led to his violent behaviour, the police stated.
“The operation followed standard protocol, and an investigation is ongoing to determine further details.”
The exact time and cause of Bunma’s death are pending forensic examinations.
Lt. Col. Kitchon, who was nearing retirement next year, had been on a routine patrol at Wat Buapan when he received the distress call. He immediately rushed to the scene, displaying his dedication to duty even in his final year of service, reported Pattaya News.
