Homeless man attacks security guard in Sakon Nakhon mall

A homeless man attacked a security guard at a shopping mall in Sakon Nakhon, confessing that he intended to use drugs before committing the act. The vagrant has a criminal record and had been defrocked after a stint in prison for drug-related offences.

Police received a report of a man attacking a security guard at a shopping mall. The incident took place near a public park walkway leading to the mall. Upon arrival, officers found Thongchan Sriuthai, a 44 year old resident of Sakon Nakhon, tied up by security guards and waiting for police.

Next to him was a black backpack containing drug paraphernalia and various sharp objects, including a small knife and scissors. The small knife used in the attack was confiscated as evidence. Thongchan was taken to the local police station and charged with attempted murder and assault.

Mongkol, the head security guard, sustained an injury on the left side of his chin. He explained that Thongchan, a known vagrant, frequently stole items from the mall. The previous day, Mongkol had ejected him from the premises.

Early this morning, Thongchan returned, shouting from a distance before throwing a three-pronged wrench at Mongkol and then attacking him with a knife.

Thongchan attempted to stab Mongkol multiple times in the stomach, side, and back. Mongkol fought back but was slashed on his left cheek. A gardener working nearby came to Mongkol’s aid, preventing the situation from escalating further. Mongkol attributed his narrow escape to the sacred amulets he had been wearing, which he believed protected him.

Previous record

Thongchan admitted to having served a six-year prison sentence for using and selling methamphetamine. After his release, he became a monk but was defrocked for drug use and drink driving. He then travelled from his hometown in Sakon Nakhon in early July to search for relatives, only to discover they had all passed away. To survive, he sold collected garbage.

Thongchan admitted to attacking the security guard out of anger for being expelled from the mall. Before the incident, he drank white liquor and took half a meth pill to boost his courage. He confessed that he intended to kill the security guard but failed. Thongchan expressed frustration, noting that others could enter the mall while he could not.

Sith, a 28 year old gardener, witnessed the incident. While trimming the garden near the scene, he saw Thongchan brandishing a weapon and charging at the head security guard.

Realising Thongchan’s intent to kill, Sith intervened and managed to subdue him until the police arrived. Sith noted that it was fortunate Thongchan had used a small knife, as a larger weapon could have resulted in more severe injuries to the security guard, reported KhaoSod.