SRI RACHA, THAILAND – A former world boxing champion was detained by police in Sri Racha after a series of alleged neighborhood disturbances led to a tense street confrontation.
Former champion detained after repeated complaints
On 23 January 2026, officers from Sri Racha Police Station were dispatched to Moo 8 in the Surasak subdistrict following reports that 46-year-old Amnat Ruenroeng had entered several houses and an office, damaged a vehicle and repeatedly caused nighttime disturbances. According to police and eyewitness accounts, officers found the former IBF flyweight world champion, also known by his ring name “Jao Phet” (Jeweled Lord), sitting alone on Bo Hin–Bor Yang Road, speaking loudly and gesturing with his hands.
Knife held to chest as officers deploy ‘mai ngarm’
Officers initially tried to invite Amnat to the station for questioning, but he refused, walked away and resisted. During an attempt to arrest him, he reportedly fled and drew a knife. Police at the scene said he then pointed the blade at his own chest, creating a highly tense situation observed by numerous passing motorists who stopped, prompting a call for reinforcements to avoid escalation.
Traditional restraining pole used to avoid injuries
The officers ultimately used a “mai ngarm,” a long pole with a forked end traditionally employed to restrain individuals from a distance without direct physical force. With this tool, they were able to bring Amnat under control and arrest him without further injuries, before taking him to Sri Racha Police Station. He faced investigation on allegations including nighttime trespass.
Residents describe fear and exhaustion
Local resident Malinee Kaew-amphorn, who lives in the affected area, said Amnat’s behavior had increasingly felt threatening to her and her neighbors, including entering her property while claiming he was looking for his wife.
“His behavior destroys the mental health of the people nearby,”
said Malinee, resident.
“At night he causes such a disturbance that dogs bark loudly and sleep becomes impossible. We feel unsafe and exhausted.”
said Malinee, resident.
Calls for treatment instead of punishment
Malinee described his behavior as conspicuous and possibly linked to mental illness.
“We believe that he is ill and needs treatment, he could still do something for society as a former boxer. We feel pity for him, but measures have to be taken.”
said Malinee, resident. Neighbors and social media commentators expressed sympathy and urged authorities to prioritize medical care and rehabilitation over punishment.
From orphanage to world title and repeated relapses
Amnat Ruenroeng was born on 18 December 1979 in Sri Racha and grew up as an orphan, later building a career in Muay Thai and as an amateur boxer on the national team. In 2014 he won the vacant IBF flyweight world title under the ring name “Amnat Kasetphat” and defended it five times before losing the belt in 2016. In recent years he repeatedly made headlines over reported alcohol problems, public incidents, previous arrests and several attempts at rehabilitation in clinics and facilities such as Ban Mor Pla in Phetchaburi province, which earlier reports said he left or ended before further incidents followed.
Ongoing custody and hopes for stabilization
Residents and online commentators voiced hope that the former champion could stabilize and once again have a positive impact. Amnat remained in police custody while legal steps were being reviewed.