Second jogger poisoned in Nonthaburi park

Officials in Nonthaburi, just northwest of Bangkok, were sent to Makut Rommayasaran Park in the government complex, to survey sites for the installation of more surveillance cameras yesterday, after 2 joggers were poisoned, apparently by someone tampering with their water bottles. According to provincial police, 2 joggers fell unconscious after drinking water from their own water bottles, which had been left temporarily unattended.

The poisoners, who police believe operate as a team, evidently used a syringe to inject the animal tranquiliser Xylazine into the plastic containers. When the joggers returned and drank the water, they rapidly fell sick and lost consciousness. Then the gang steal their personal effects. Police say 2 joggers have been poisoned so far, with 1 of them in serious condition, spending 3 days in ICU.

Nonthaburi’s governor told media that he’s ordered more lighting and CCTV cameras to be installed in the park and instructed guards to step up patrols. Joggers and visitors to the park have been warned not to leave their water bottles unattended. The provincial police commander says he’s confident that they’ll catch the perpetrators soon.

Water samples from the victims’ bottles were tested and found to contain Xylazine, which is colourless and mostly tasteless and quickly absorbed by the body.

SOURCE: Thai PBS World