Police officer shoots himself in Ang Thong, dies in hospital
A police officer died after using a firearm to harm himself near his residence in Ang Thong province. Police Colonel Kantapon Thanathippinsakul stated that personal issues and depression were likely factors while emphasising consistent support for his team.
The incident occurred at noon yesterday, January 8, when Police Colonel Kantapon from Samko Police Station received a report about the officer, a member of the administrative division, who had been critically injured by a self-inflicted gunshot near the police officers’ residential building. Responding promptly, police and forensic officers arrived at the scene to investigate.
At the location beside the residential building, they discovered a black canvas chair with a can of beer placed on it. On the concrete ground, there was a Glock 19, a 9mm pistol. The injured officer, holding the rank of sergeant, had already been rushed to Samko Hospital. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries later, with the bullet having struck a critical area near his right temple.
Police Colonel Kantapon disclosed that the officer was battling personal problems alongside depression. He noted that there were no work-related issues that could have influenced the officer’s drastic decision, as they regularly shared meals nearly every day and he closely monitored his team’s well-being.
The officer had shown no indication of intending to take such action. It is believed that personal stress and depression played significant roles, and a thorough investigation has been ordered to determine the true motivation behind the incident, reported KhaoSod.
Police suicides in Thailand have emerged as a significant concern, reflecting broader mental health challenges within the force. Between 2008 and 2016, nearly 300 Thai police officers took their own lives, averaging almost 40 suicides annually.
In response to these challenges, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) initiated measures to support officers’ mental well-being. Following a 27-hour standoff in March 2023 involving a senior officer with mental health issues, the RTP mandated nationwide mental health screenings to identify and assist at-risk personnel, reported Bangkok Post.
If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help.
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