Knife-wielding man invades Pattananikom School causing panic, quick thinking saves day
A knife-wielding man stormed into Pattana Nikom School in the Pattana Nikom district, Satun province, causing panic among teachers and students.
The knife-wielding man, later identified as 31 year old Narong (surname withheld), also brandished a slingshot, causing alarm as teachers and students were participating in a school clean-up. The quick thinking of school staff secured the premises, allowing everyone to seek refuge in the canteen.
Following the alarming incident, the school principal, Supranee Rattanapaiboon, alerted local authorities and law enforcement. Police were able to apprehend Narong, who was found to have a history of drug abuse and had previously received treatment. Narong resided with his two grandmothers in the local area.
Anan Nuakhao, a local community leader from the same district, shed light on Narong’s situation and expressed the need for increased vigilance among all stakeholders – the school, parents, local governance, police, and the community. He emphasised the importance of monitoring local schools and facilitating treatment for individuals struggling with drug addiction. Legal action would also be pursued in due course.
Following the incident, Dr Phirum Chinthada, the Director of Satun’s Provincial Education Office, visited the school to provide moral support to the teachers, staff, educational personnel, students, and parents alike. He reiterated that all schools must be prepared to face such incidents and have contingency plans in place, reported KhaoSod.
The incident underscored the principal’s quick thinking in evacuating students to a safe location. Schools are urged to be prepared should similar incidents occur. Fortunately, no students or staff were injured in this incident.
In related news, a mentally disturbed man wielding a knife chased teachers and students around the flagpole, leading to injuries. The man was later apprehended by the police. The incident took place at 8.30am, at Ban Namphu Hin Lat School in Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum province. Read more about this story HERE.
