Thai police arrest over 30 armed youths in Udon Thani

Thai police arrested over 30 youths, aged 14 to 18, armed with knives and homemade bombs, waiting to ambush rivals in Udon Thani. The incident occurred at 2am yesterday, August 15, prompting a swift response and investigation.

Police in Udon Thani received a report about a group of teenagers involved in a brawl at Thai Siri 3 Market, Ban Wua Khong, Ban Lueam subdistrict in the city’s main district. Upon receiving the alert, Deputy Inspector Sata Porn Sawasdee from Udon Thani Provincial Police Station led a team to the scene.

Officers arrived at a canal near Thai Siri 3 Market to find a group of over 30 teenagers gathered. As soon as they spotted the police, many attempted to flee on motorcycles, but the officers managed to detain 12 individuals. These detainees, aged between 14 and 18, were found in possession of two homemade bombs, four curved knives, two swords, three motorcycles, and one motorcycle with a sidecar.

Initial investigations revealed that the youths came from different villages within the Chiang Pin subdistrict. They had planned to ride their motorcycles to various locations where teenagers usually congregate, such as Thung Sri Muang Park, city parks, and the train station. Their modus operandi was to chase and attack rivals upon encountering them or to lay in wait at spots frequented by their adversaries. This pattern of behaviour has been observed in multiple areas.

The police have taken all the detained individuals to Udon Thani Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings.

“We acted quickly after receiving the report, and fortunately, we managed to prevent what could have been a dangerous confrontation. These young individuals had planned to cause harm.”

Police investigation

Further investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the group’s activities and whether they have been involved in similar incidents in the past. Police are also looking into the origins of the homemade bombs and the potential risk they pose to public safety.

Residents have expressed their concern over the increasing incidents of youth violence in the area.

“It’s alarming to see such young people involved in violent activities. We hope the authorities can address this issue effectively to ensure the safety of our community.”

Police urge parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities and encourage them to engage in positive and constructive behaviours. Community leaders are also being called upon to promote initiatives that can help steer youths away from violence and towards more productive endeavours.

The police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order in the region, emphasising that any acts of violence will be met with strict legal action. The arrested youths now face potential charges related to illegal possession of weapons and explosives, as well as participation in violent activities, reported KhaoSod.