Thai man arrested over death threat to kindergarten students in Isaan

Police arrested a Thai man in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok yesterday after he posted a death threat against kindergarten students in the Isaan province of Maha Sarakham on a Facebook group.

The suspect, identified as 35 year old Apisit, posted the threat in a Facebook group for residents of Kosum Phisai district in Maha Sarakham at around 4am yesterday, November 12. In the post, Apisit stated his bone-chilling intentions.

“No later than April of next year, there will be news of a mass shooting at a kindergarten in Maha Sarakham province. Wait for it. Make yourself ready.”

An investigation into the Facebook account revealed that it belonged to Apisit. Though originally from Maha Sarakham, he lived in Nonthaburi for work. His family home is located in the Wapi Pathum district, but he previously worked in the Kosum Phisai district before moving to Nonthaburi.

Further investigation led police to arrest Apisit at his rented room in the Bang Kruay district of Nonthaburi. Apisit confessed to his actions, though the motive behind his threat was not disclosed.

Apisit was charged under Section 384 of the Criminal Law for intentionally spreading false information or rumours that could incite public panic. This offence carries a penalty of up to one month in prison, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.

He also violated Section 14(1) of the Computer Crime Act, which prohibits the introduction of false information into a computer system in a way that could cause harm to third parties or the public. This carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 100,000 baht.

Apisit was then transferred to Kosum Phisai Police Station in Maha Sarakham for further legal proceedings.

This chilling threat has reminded the public of the mass shooting that occurred at a daycare centre in Nong Bua Lamphu on October 6, 2022. This tragedy shocked the nation and made international headlines.

In that incident, a former police officer with a history of drug use murdered 24 young children and two teachers at the daycare centre. The gunman then shot motorists as he drove home, where he killed his wife and child before taking his own life. A total of 37 people, including the assailant, lost their lives in the attack.