Late night Bangla shooter hunted for attempted murder

PHUKET: Police are hunting for a man who allegedly shot another four times early this morning in Patong.

Patong Police received reports of the incident at 3.41am, which took place at a parking lot behind the VIP Room nightclub on Bangla Road.

The victim, Sayan Padungsap, 35, identified the shooter as 34-year-old Thanapon Pankaew before being rushed to Patong Hospital. He was later transferred to the Intensive Care Unit at Vachira Phuket Hospital, where his condition is reportedly critical.

“Mr Sayan was shot four times – in his stomach, right hip, left calf and left foot,” said Maj Teerasak Boonsang of the Patong Police.

Blood and bullets littered the scene and there were bullet holes in Mr Thanapon’s pick-up truck, which he had abandoned.

“Witnesses told us that Mr Sayan and Mr Thanapon knew each other. They were having an argument which resulted in the shooting,” Maj Teerasak added.

Mr Thanapon fled the scene and is wanted for attempted murder.

Police are waiting for Mr Sayan to recover before questioning him further.

— Winai Sarot