Young Thai police officer drowns pursuing suspect in Yom River

A 22 year old police officer from the Sa-iab Police Station tragically drowned while pursuing a drug suspect in the Yom River. His colleagues and family are devastated by this unfortunate incident.

Sitthiphong Kanta, affectionately known as “Moo Art,” was a dedicated officer at the Sa-iab Police Station. The incident took place when he was in pursuit of a suspect believed to be under the influence of methamphetamine.

At approximately 2.20pm yesterday, November 13, the police officer joined a team from the Sa-iab Police Station to conduct a routine patrol in the area near the Pha Ing Bridge in Sa-iab, Song, Phrae province.

During the patrol, they encountered a construction worker, identified as 37 year old Thep, who was working on the nearby concrete bridge. Thep appeared startled and attempted to flee after Sitthiphong approached him.

The suspect ran towards the riverbank and jumped into the water. Sitthiphong, in a bid to apprehend him, courageously followed suit by diving into the river.

The pursuit turned into a tragedy when Sitthiphong did not resurface. The police quickly coordinated with Nattapakal Srikampa, the head of the Sa-iab Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, and rescue teams from the Sa-iab subdistrict, Mae Yom National Park, and Song Ruam Jai Volunteer Rescue Association.

They conducted an extensive search for Sitthiphong in the river. His body was eventually discovered at 6.15pm. Medical professionals confirmed that the cause of death was drowning due to a lack of oxygen. The family of the deceased did not request an autopsy, as they were satisfied with the conclusion.

The atmosphere was mournful as Songkran Thipo, the chief of the Sa-iab Police Station, along with other officers, recovered the body of Sitthiphong, surrounded by grieving family members and neighbours. Their sorrow was palpable as they came together to honour the young officer’s memory.

In an expression of shared grief, the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s IDMB page posted heartfelt condolences to Sitthiphong’s family, acknowledging his bravery in the line of duty. The post highlighted the officer’s dedication as he pursued the suspect, which ultimately led to his tragic death, reported KhaoSod.

“The Metropolitan Police Investigation Bureau extends its deepest condolences to the family of Sitthiphong Kanta, who perished while faithfully executing his duty to apprehend a suspect who had fled into the river on November 13.”