Rescuers Injured in Police Station Clash After Killing in Northaburi

A violent clash broke out at Pakkret Police Station in Nonthaburi on 18 April after relatives and friends of a 26-year-old man killed in an assault attempted to attack the suspect in custody. Five rescue volunteers were injured and an official vehicle was damaged during the unrest, prompting police intervention to restore order.

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The incident follows the death of Thiti, aged 26, who was fatally struck on the head with a pestle by Jirawat 59, a barber, inside a men’s barbershop in Soi Amphon Phisan 18, Bang Phut, Pakkret. The suspect told police the victim had asked to borrow 20,000 baht and when he refused, the victim allegedly pulled a knife and attempted to stab him, leading him to strike back with the pestle.

On 18 April, large numbers of the victim’s relatives and friends gathered at the police station after the suspect was brought in for questioning. Tensions escalated as the group attempted to carry out a mob attack, forcing police officers and rescue volunteers to intervene to control the situation.

During the confrontation, more than five rescue volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung and Ruamkatanyu foundations were injured while performing their duties. They reported being hit by thrown beer bottles, punched and caught in the melee, while a rescue vehicle sustained damage, including a shattered window.

After filing reports with investigators, members of the victim’s group approached the rescue volunteers to apologise. However, tensions briefly flared again as more people gathered, splitting into two opposing groups and leading to further verbal disputes due to misunderstandings.

Police Colonel Adirek Thongkamkaew, superintendent of Pak Kret Police Station, stepped in to mediate the conflict. He spent around 30 minutes negotiating between both sides until they reached a mutual understanding and exchanged apologies.

Authorities confirmed that further discussions will be arranged to address injuries and property damage arising from the clash. Police have pledged to ensure fairness for both parties as the case proceeds. The Daily News reported that the situation de-escalated, with both groups dispersing peacefully and no further violence reported. Investigations into the killing and the subsequent disturbances remain ongoing.

Picture courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 Apr 2026