An Australian man has been arrested after crashing into a police checkpoint in Phuket and injuring a police officer before fleeing the scene in the early hours of 22 June 2026.
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Police said they were notified of the crash at 01:05 at the Naka police checkpoint in Kamala subdistrict, Kathu district. The collision resulted in injuries to a police officer who was on duty at the time.
According to investigators, officers from Kamala Police Station were preparing equipment for a checkpoint operation when a white Toyota Yaris Ativ approached from Kamala towards Patong.
Police allege that the vehicle struck a checkpoint sign at high speed, sending it flying across the road and causing damage. Pol. Lance Cpl. Anuchit Chaocharoen was standing behind the sign while carrying out his duties and suffered injuries in the collision.
Following the crash, the driver allegedly left the scene. Police immediately launched a search operation to locate the vehicle and driver. Officers later intercepted the car in Patong and arrested the driver, identified as Australian national Petratos Kosta.
He was subsequently taken to Kamala Police Station for legal proceedings. The injured officer received assistance following the incident. Police have not yet released further details regarding the extent of his injuries, but are believed not to be serious.
The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by officers working at roadside checkpoints, particularly during late-night operations when visibility and traffic conditions can present additional challenges.
Authorities have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing. Officers are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash and are gathering additional evidence to determine the events leading up to the incident, with legal action to follow.
Picture courtesy of Khaosod
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 22 June 2026