Bangkok police address transgender conflict in Bangkok

In an intriguing turn of events, a conflict between Thai and Filipino transgenders captured the attention of Bangkok, transpiring in Soi Sukhumvit 11, Watthana. On March 5, the commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 5, Police Major General Wittawat Chinkham, held a press conference to shed light on the situation that has led to legal actions and police investigations.

Unfolding as two separate incidents, the first saw six Thai individuals fall victim to an alleged attack by 20 Filipina individuals in the early hours of March 4. Of these, two Filipinas are now subject to legal repercussions for purportedly conspiring to assault others.

The suspects are due to face further legal processing at the Pathumwan District Court, courtesy of the Lumpini inquiry officers. Furthermore, an additional Filipina is under police investigation, with the Thai criminal court being requested to issue an arrest warrant.

The second incident, referred to as the “transgender veterans incident,” occurred on the same day, March 4. This situation involved a physical attack on a Filipina transgender by a Thai individual known only as Champ. Following this altercation, Champ was granted bail. The Filipina individual involved applied for a mediation process, stating that pressing charges against Champ was unnecessary, reported Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittawat at the press conference.

“The case was already settled between the two parties.”

It was also noted that a social media influencer was alleged to have instigated a protest, escalating the situation and involving over 100 people in Soi Sukhumvit 11. The Thai individual who posted the social media posts prompting the gathering on March 4 has been summoned by the police.

Diplomatic relations

Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittawat was keen to emphasise that the incidents bear no connection to the broader relations between Thailand and the Philippines. He confirmed that the issues had been communicated to the Philippine Ambassador to Thailand to ensure mutual understanding between the two nations.

In addition, a report alluding to alleged prostitution services involving Thai and other national transgender individuals in Soi Sukhumvit and nearby areas was addressed. Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittawat firmly asserted that the Thai police had been proactive in tackling the issues.

“There was no prostitution in the areas.”

This assertion triggered an order for the police to conduct an in-depth investigation regarding the report. Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittawat assured that any misconceptions or potential illegal activities would be thoroughly scrutinised to maintain peace and order in the affected areas, reported The Pattaya News.