PHUKET, THAILAND – A Thai ice cream seller high on meth went for two foreign tourists in broad daylight on Kata Beach, brandishing a weapon. Bystanders overpowered the 30-year-old and held him until police arrived.
The suspect, Parinya Praditsuwann, from Chachoengsao province, was arrested and tested positive for methamphetamine at the station. He confessed to taking the drug before the attack.
Positive drug test and confession at the station
Officers conducted a urine test on Parinya after his arrest. The result immediately flagged for methamphetamine.
During questioning, the 30-year-old admitted consuming the drug. He said he took the methamphetamine before the incident.
Video shows bravery on the beach
A video of the attack, posted by Facebook user Bank Marlboro, spread rapidly online. Footage shows several passersby overwhelming the man right on the sand.
Social media users widely praised the courage of the helpers. Some also criticised how quickly police arrived at the scene.
Police arrived at midday
Emergency calls started flooding into Karon police around 11:45 am. Locals and beach visitors reported a confused Thai man charging at tourists with a weapon.
Karon police chief Colonel Pathapi Srichai sent patrol officers to the scene. By the time they got there, brave bystanders had already subdued and detained the man.
Both tourists escape unharmed
The two holidaymakers, Dmitrii Danielenko and Dmytroy Yeliseive, suffered no major injuries, police said. Both were able to leave the station on their own.
The exact trigger for the sudden attack remains unclear. Officers have not commented on the motive so far.
Suspect held in police custody
Parinya was handcuffed and taken to Karon police station. He now faces a court trial.
The police investigation into the Kata Beach incident continues. More details on the attack are expected to emerge from further interrogations.