Two more suspects sought in Phuket attack on Malaysian royal bodyguard

PHUKET: The five people accused of attacking a Malaysian royal family bodyguard in Patong in May continue to be held in Phuket as police pursue two additional suspects.

“The court has issued arrest warrants for two Malaysian suspects,” said Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Arun Kaewvatee.

“We have sent the warrants to Malaysian police, who are searching for them,” he said.

Three Thais and two Malaysians have been charged with robbery and assault in the attack, which left bodyguard Mohd Sobri Bin Said severely beaten (story here).

Mr Said is a bodyguard to Kedah Council of Regency chairman Tan Sri Tunku Annuar Sultan Badlishah.

“We are collecting more evidence and questioning more witnesses,” said Col Arun.

“The incident has nothing to do with the Kedah Council of Regency chairman. It is based on an argument between the seven suspects and the Kedah royal family bodyguard, Mohd Sobri Bin Said,” Col Arun claimed.

Col Arun did not elaborate what the conflict was over. The Malaysians being held for the attack are suspected of entering Thailand and travelling nearly 500km to Phuket with the sole intention of attacking Mr Said.

— Orawin Narabal