Cambodian Man Stabbed in Gang Attack During Na Kluea Wan Lai Festival

A 35-year-old Cambodian man was seriously injured after being stabbed during a group assault in the Na Kluea Songkran Wan Lai festival on 18 April. The victim, identified as Mr Nang suffered a large, severe wound to his right waist and was rushed to Pattaya Bhattamakun Hospital for urgent treatment. Emergency responders said he had fled the scene on foot to seek help from nearby residents.

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The incident was reported at 15:45 to the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue centre in Pattaya, which coordinated with Bang Lamung police and dispatched a medical team. According to the victim, he was attacked by a group of Myanmar nationals who allegedly chased and assaulted him before stabbing him with a sharp metal object. He believed the violence stemmed from a dispute during water play at the Na Kluea Wan Lai festival.

Picture courtesy of Matichon

Investigations at the scene near Amorn Market, around 200 metres from where the victim sought help, revealed clear signs of a violent confrontation. Broken glass bottles were scattered across the ground and a trail of blood led past a pork shop. Witnesses said the groups had initially been celebrating and dancing together before the situation escalated quickly into violence.

Local residents reported seeing around 10 Karen individuals chasing and attacking a group of five to six Cambodians along a road near the market. CCTV footage captured parts of the altercation, although witnesses said they initially saw only punching and did not realise weapons were involved. Residents noted that such violence had not previously occurred during the Na Kluea Wan Lai celebrations.

Police have taken a statement from the injured man as evidence and to file a formal complaint. Authorities are now working to identify and locate those responsible for the attack, with further legal action expected. The incident has raised concerns about safety during large festival gatherings in the area.

Matichon reported that police are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing additional witnesses to build a case. Security measures during festival periods may also come under review to prevent similar incidents in future years.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 19 Apr 2026