Pattaya’s sharp teens: Samurai swords land youngsters in hot water
Pattaya police arrested a group of teenagers, aged between 14 and 16 years, for possessing samurai swords and other weapons. The incident took place yesterday around 6pm near the Dongtan substation of Pattaya Police Station.
Among the confiscated items were three samurai swords, each measuring between 30 and 50 centimetres, six pocket knives, and three brass knuckles. The teens, comprising six boys and two girls, were found mingling with tourists when the police arrived.
A tip-off from a vigilant citizen, who noticed the teens brandishing the weapons, led to the swift police response. Upon arrival, officers observed the group displaying signs of nervousness. A subsequent search revealed the weapons concealed in their clothing and bags.
According to the teenagers, they carried the weapons to rescue a friend who they claimed had been kidnapped and assaulted by unknown attackers. They asserted that the weapons were meant for self-defence during their rescue attempt. Despite their explanation, the police remained sceptical and detained them at the Dongtan substation.
The parents of the detained teens were contacted and may face legal repercussions.
In related news, Chaing Mai authorities apprehended an 18 year old gang leader in May following a robbery spree, his latest venture involved threatening and attacking local skateboarders with a samurai sword, before speeding off on a motorcycle driven by his assailants.
They were found in possession of a samurai sword, motorcycles used in the crimes, and fruit juices and cigarettes robbed from victims.
The incident began on May 11 when 20 year old Kangchit, and his 20 year old friend Thakdanai were skateboarding at Prasertsaran Land in Chiang Mai. The teenage gang led by Bung Peach rode up on motorcycles, pulled out a samurai sword, robbed the two young men and assaulted them.
