Lost for words: Sisaket cops solve drunk mute man mystery
A local police station in Sisaket province faced an unusual challenge when an inebriated and lost mute man was brought in. Struggling to communicate, officers eventually relied on pen and paper to identify and safely return him to his family.
Officers from Phon Khwao Police Station received a report yesterday, November 20, of a disoriented man located within Ban Non I Pang Temple in Nong Kaew, Mueang district, Sisaket province. The man, unable to speak and visibly intoxicated, was brought to the station for assistance. Without any identification, the only items he carried were a small bottle of 40-degree white liquor and an arm tattoo which read “Lumyai Haitongkam.”
The man’s attempt to communicate revealed he had been assaulted, resulting in a broken front tooth. He tried to indicate his whereabouts on a map but due to communication barriers, the process took over an hour.
Police Officer Prasert Khamsaenmuen, involved in the case, expressed his frustration over the incident.
“We received a notification from the village headman about a lost person. Upon arrival, we found communication was impossible, so we brought him to the station, hoping to contact his family.”
The situation escalated as officers struggled to understand the man’s needs. Eventually, they provided him with paper and a pen, leading to a breakthrough.
The man wrote down his name as Natthawut Plengsuk. With this information, officers searched the civil registry and found his address in Chan, Kanthararom district, Sisaket province. Further contact with his relatives revealed that Natthawut, a mute individual, had left home two days ago to harvest rice and hadn’t returned since.
Once identified, Deputy Inspector Prakob Sawang Sotha from Phon Khwao Police Station took immediate action to reunite Natthawut with his family. Upon reaching home, an emotional Natthawut embraced the officers, grateful for their efforts in bringing him back safely, reported KhaoSod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
How can law enforcement improve communication strategies for individuals with disabilities?
Implementing specialised training and technology can bridge communication gaps, ensuring all individuals receive appropriate assistance.
What lessons can be learned from the use of unconventional methods in police work?
Creativity and adaptability in problem-solving can lead to successful outcomes, especially when traditional methods fail.
Why might intoxication complicate the identification process in police investigations?
Intoxication can impair cognitive abilities, making it difficult for individuals to communicate clearly or remember personal details.
What if technology was used to assist in identifying lost individuals more efficiently?
Advanced tools like facial recognition could expedite identification, reducing stress and improving response times.
How do emotional reunions impact the perception of police work in communities?
Positive interactions, such as successful reunions, can enhance community trust and highlight the compassionate side of law enforcement.
