Knife-wielding gamer turns arsonist, torches cars, attacks cop in Bangkok

Police captured a knife-welding gamer, turned arsonist, after he caused chaos by setting fire to three vehicles and injuring a police officer. The 44 year old suspect, Panthap, whose full name is withheld, was apprehended at his residence in Bangkok following a dramatic police operation in which he blamed his actions on a mobile game addiction.

The incident that led to Panthap’s capture began around 7am yesterday, October 20, when officers from the Bang Khun Thian Police Station received a report of a fire at a private parking lot in Phasi Charoen district, Bangkok. Three vehicles were destroyed in the blaze.

The vehicles involved were a Mitsubishi Xpander, a Toyota Vios, and a Chevrolet Optra, all bearing Bangkok registration plates. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported at the scene. The police, along with forensic officials, determined that the fire was intentionally set.

Surveillance footage and witness testimonies identified Panthap as the arsonist. He was seen pouring gasoline from a container onto the Mitsubishi Xpander and igniting it with a lighter, causing the fire to spread to the other two vehicles. Consequently, the police sought a warrant for his arrest.

Deputy Superintendent Chakraphan Thongsai led the operation to arrest Panthap at a two-storey house belonging to his sister, located not far from the scene of the fire. The team employed bulletproof shields, batons, electric stun guns, and rubber bullet shotguns according to standard tactical procedures.

During the arrest attempt, Panthap climbed onto the roof of the kitchen extension of the house, brandishing a three-foot-long knife. He swung the weapon at Police Sergeant Tosaphon Muangkam, who managed to dodge but fell off the concrete wall, sustaining minor injuries.

Deputy Superintendent Chakraphan stated that despite using an electric stun gun, Panthap continued his rampage. Officers then resorted to rubber bullets, causing him to fall from the kitchen roof and suffer minor injuries. He was immediately apprehended.

Upon interrogation, Panthap revealed that he was unemployed and addicted to the game ROV, playing it all day. He admitted to experiencing severe stress, which led to his frenzied actions. He carried a gasoline container and set the vehicles on fire as a result of his mental state. Panthap was taken to Bang Khun Thian Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.