Injured police say no force used against protesters

PHUKET: Some police officers injured during the Phuket riot testified yesterday that they did not respond violently when protesters attacked them.

About 20 policemen were injured when protesters threw rocks, bricks and wooden objects at them, Patong Police Deputy Superintendent Akanit Danpitaksat explained.

Mueang Police Superintendent Sompong Boonyarat, Kamala Police Deputy Superintendent Boriboon Yusuksomboon and Lt Col Akanit all gave statements to the team investigating the riot (story here).

Lt Col Akanit said his unit retreated from the site at about 3:30am Sunday. While his unit was walking near the Thalang intersection, a group of teenagers turned and started to throw rocks and other things at them.

The teenagers also allegedly shouted that the officers were harming them, prompting other protesters to join the attack.

Col Akanit suffered a cut on his head that required five stitches.

— The Nation