Routine traffic stop in Chon Buri uncovers homemade firearm

In an unexpected incident in Chon Buri, a routine traffic stop turned into a significant police operation. Officers from the Banglamung police station discovered a loaded homemade firearm during a search of an individual who aroused their suspicion. The incident unfolded at 2.15am on November 4 in the Banglamung district of Chon Buri province.

According to the deputy inspector of the Banglamung Police Station, Police Lieutenant Anirut Bangsri, a Thai man, Suriya Yuenyaw, was halted at a police checkpoint on Sukhumvit Road while heading towards Pattaya. His motorbike was conspicuously lacking a license plate, prompting the officers to stop him.

The police identified Suriya as a 30 year old resident from the northeastern province of Buriram in Thailand based on his identification card. His behaviour, coupled with visible signs of intoxication, raised the officers’ suspicion. As a result, Pol. Lt. Anirut decided to conduct a thorough search of Suriya.

Their meticulous search yielded an astonishing find – a homemade .32 calibre pistol, loaded with a single bullet, hidden in the right front pocket of Suriya’s jeans. The unexpected discovery led to his immediate arrest for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Pol. Lt. Anirut revealed that during the initial questioning, Suriya claimed that the firearm was obtained from unidentified co-workers. Regardless of the source, Suriya was charged with possession of firearms and ammunition without a license and for carrying these items unlawfully in public.

As for the motorbike he was riding without a license plate, it remains unclear whether additional charges related to this violation will be added. The incident serves as a reminder of the daily challenges and dangers police officers face, even during routine traffic stops, reported Pattaya News.

The investigation into the matter continues, with efforts to identify and apprehend the individuals who supplied the firearm to Suriya. The police are also looking into his past and any possible criminal connections. The story is a testament to the vigilance and dedication of the Thai police force in maintaining law and order.

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