PATTAYA, THAILAND – After a fatal firearm incident allegedly involving an officer from Pattaya Police, the national police chief ordered a full investigation along with strict disciplinary and criminal action.
Order from Bangkok: Tough consequences announced
The head of the Royal Thai Police ordered a comprehensive investigation and firm disciplinary and criminal measures against the Pattaya officer involved. The force stated that the case should be handled without delay and that procedures should move forward quickly.
According to the national leadership, the response was intended to underscore that serious misconduct by police would not be tolerated. The emphasis on swift action highlighted concern over the impact of the case on public trust in law enforcement.
Police leadership closely monitoring the case
Police spokesperson Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan said national police chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet and the police inspector general Pol. Gen. Itthipol Atchariyapradit were following the investigation closely. Their oversight was prompted in particular by the status of the suspect.
The heightened attention was due to the fact that the alleged perpetrator was an officer from Pattaya City Police Station. The national command viewed the involvement of a serving Pattaya officer as especially serious.
Night-time call-out: Dispute with firearm reported
According to Pattaya police chief Pol. Col. Anek Srathongyu, patrol officers were called out at around 1:20 a.m. The report concerned a dispute involving a firearm behind an event venue in Pattaya.
Officers were dispatched to the scene to secure the area and clarify the situation. Initial information indicated that several people had been involved in the argument near the venue.
What is known so far: Table argument escalated
Investigators established that the suspect, the later victim and another friend had been sitting together before the dispute broke out. The situation at the table then escalated into a confrontation.
According to police, the officer allegedly first tried to shoot at another man at the table but missed. This initial shot appeared to have triggered further attempts by those present to control the weapon.
Shot causes fatal injury
The victim then reportedly tried to wrest the firearm from the officer. During this struggle, the victim was shot.
The injured person was taken to hospital but later died from the injuries. The incident turned the reported dispute into a case of fatal violence.
Arrest at the scene and next steps
Police said the suspect was arrested immediately at the scene. He was taken into custody as officers began gathering evidence and witness statements.
“The Pattaya police have been instructed to proceed without delay, both criminally and disciplinarily, and at the same time to review supervision and discipline within the unit.”
said Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong, referring to the orders given to the local force.
The case was expected to involve both internal disciplinary review and formal criminal proceedings. The national police leadership framed the response as part of efforts to strengthen control and discipline within the Pattaya unit.