Chalong cops stage ‘active gunman’ drill amid festival fears

Shoppers at Chalong’s popular Robinson Lifestyle mall were left in shock as police staged a dramatic active gunman drill, simulating a gunman on the loose. A video, posted by Chalong Police on Tuesday, October 1, shows a man pulling up on a motorbike, wielding what looks like an assault rifle, before storming the mall in a mock mass shooting.

As the gunman moved through the building, staff were seen fleeing, while senior officers arrived on the scene, taking control with the help of the mall’s CCTV system.

A crack police team, armed with a bulletproof shield, entered in formation and confronted the gunman, who quickly surrendered.

Although the police post didn’t specify when the exercise took place, the timing was no coincidence—Phuket’s famous Vegetarian Festival had just kicked off, bringing in huge crowds and raising security concerns.

Region 8 Police Commander Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomchit launched a special anti-crime campaign on the same day, involving 350 personnel from the police, navy, and Volunteer Defence Corps.

“The safety of the public and tourists is our top priority. We are committed to using all necessary precautions and police tactics to ensure everyone’s safety during the Vegetarian Festival.”

The drill serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of violence, even in the most unexpected places. With large gatherings attracting unwanted attention, police are on high alert, making sure their response plans are razor-sharp, reported Phuket News.

In related news, Phuket Town raced against time to ensure its roads are smooth and festival-ready before the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off today. The city’s top brass is pulling out all the stops, with Deputy Mayor Suphot La-ongphet leading the charge on a series of urgent road resurfacing projects across key streets.

Suphot was spotted inspecting Yaowarat Road on Monday, September 23, where the finishing touches are being made to a newly installed drainage system that promises to banish the area’s flooding woes.