Yesterday’s chilling episode at Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok, where innocent lives were tragically lost and several more scarred, was a haunting reminder of the unpredictable nature of our world. But even in the midst of such dark hours, we saw the very best of our society. The heroes of this narrative, beyond the swift response of our law enforcement, were the ordinary staff of Siam Paragon.

 

When chaos erupted and threatened to escalate the casualties, Siam Paragon’s staff rose to the occasion, driven by a combination of their training and an innate sense of duty. What could have been an even more catastrophic event was mitigated significantly by the presence of mind, determination, and bravery of these individuals.

 

It is crucial to highlight that many establishments often overlook emergency preparedness, dismissing it as a costly or unnecessary investment. But Siam Paragon’s foresight in implementing thorough emergency protocols and regularly drilling their staff on them was nothing short of life-saving. Their preparation for the worst ensured that when the worst did occur, they were ready.

 

by Thai Enquirer

 

Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2023-10-04

 

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Heroes Amidst Chaos: Officers Awarded for Bravery in Mall Shooting Incident

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

On October 4, 2023, a wave of applause and appreciation enveloped the internet as social media platforms lit up in commendation of three brave police officers who apprehended a shooter in the notorious Siam Paragon mall shooting incident.

 

Assistant National Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Nopphasilp Phulsawasdi and Pol. Lt. Gen. Nakarin Sukontavit, Chief of Police Region 6, presented awards to Dep. Lt. Col. Thanamorn Nuannat, Deputy Commander of Pathumwan Police Station, Pol. Capt. Korn Sriphrom, and Pol. Capt. Nantachai Suthum for their unwavering bravery and swift action, reported Siam Rath.

 

A viral clip capturing the moment the officers took control of the assailant has amassed significant attention online. Social media users have praised the officers for their courage and dedication to duty, demonstrating the unwavering spirit of law enforcement amidst chaos and danger.

 

These three officers exemplified resilience and valor, promptly neutralizing the threat and ensuring the safety of terrified onlookers. The awards served not just as recognition of their courageous act but also as a testament to the undaunted spirit of the police force, ready to face danger head-on to protect and serve the public. 

 

-- ASEAN NOW 2023-10-04

 

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Why are guns so easily available in Thailand? The police sell them on right? If not where do they get them from?

28 minutes ago, Deserted said:

Why are guns so easily available in Thailand? The police sell them on right? If not where do they get them from?

Many places.

Police, armed forces, illegal imports, home made. Not difficult to find if you look on social media.

The 14 yr old kid had a 'prop' gun that was illegally modified.

2 hours ago, webfact said:

But Siam Paragon’s foresight in implementing thorough emergency protocols and regularly drilling their staff on them was nothing short of life-saving.

Apparently, they practice these procedures every three months or so.

Well done SP.

Bangkok’s brave trio: Police heroes steal hearts after Siam Paragon shooting
by Nattapong Westwood

 

Photo: Siam Paragon, on twitter.

 

A commendable and heroic act by three dedicated police officers unfolded in the bustling heart of Bangkok, garnering widespread admiration and recognition from both the Deputy National Police Chief and an appreciative online community after the Siam Paragon shooting incident.

 

The officers were hailed for their exceptional professionalism and valour as they apprehended the teenage perpetrator involved in a shooting incident within Siam Paragon, which claimed the lives of two women and injured five at the iconic shopping mall in the Thai capital.

 

Deputy National Police Chief, Police Lieutenant General Nopphon Poonsawat bestowed accolades upon the officers, underscoring their exceptional courage and commitment to upholding law and order. Their actions were a testament to the unwavering dedication of law enforcement personnel in the face of adversity.

The accolades were formally presented by Police Lieutenant General Nakarin Sukontawit, the Chief of Metropolitan Police Bureau 6, who joined Police Lieutenant General Nopphon Poonsawat in commending these exemplary officers. Their achievements resonated deeply within the ranks of the police force and captured the attention of a public deeply appreciative of their actions.

 

Full story: The Thaiger 2023-10-04

 

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Leaving aside this particular incident and looking at the bigger picture, it's blatantly obvious that it's much too easy for anyone to buy large quantities of guns and ammunition in Thailand. Even for a teenager with mental health issues who really shouldn't have access to weapons under any circumstances.

 

If that won't be addressed in any meaningful way, then sadly, we'll see a lot more like this.

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Their actions were a testament to the unwavering dedication of law enforcement personnel in the face of adversity.

And the rest of the time? Shooting each other or their wife, jilted by a lover, in restaurants etc. etc. etc. 

In my experience the plethora of "security guards" at many locations, including private condos etc is a complete sham. The "guards" are uniformed doormen, car park attendants or bag carriers. They are part of the package of living in a condo, where the visual impact is more important than the real effectiveness. And it doesn't come cheaply. Spending the money on a better security system, such as key card access to floors in the lifts etc would be much more effective, but in my own building residents enjoy the saluting and wai-ing, and not having to open the door.

All good, all understood but they should have shot and killed the weirdo. He will not be punishable due to his age, is certainly very very sick in his mind and will not be able to be cured. Hence, X days, X months or X years from now he will be leaving a mental institute without any change. 

While it is tragic to see all this, the responsibility of the authorities lie with the protection of the majority - in this case 99.9999999% of the population which needs to be sure, that such a weirdo will never ever be "challenged" follow little inner voices in his brain! 

The officers who were awarded are a Lieutenant Colonel and two Captains.

If they are the three helmeted individuals in the photo, who is who? One appears to be a SWAT team member. No non-commissioned officers involved?

Not even a day and already gloating

Is it not the duty of the police to protect the people? Why should they be rewarded an be named as heroes as they just did their job? 

4 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

Is it not the duty of the police to protect the people? Why should they be rewarded an be named as heroes as they just did their job? 

 

Is that a serious question?

In other words those private security chaps at the metal detectors on the entrances of malls and other public spaces are just useless. Or do they only check foreigners and never check the Thai's ?

On 10/4/2023 at 4:52 AM, Tropicalevo said:

Apparently, they practice these procedures every three months or so.

Well done SP.

So then maybe they can announce in the loudspeakers about theshooting in english as well next time? Not only Thai. And people did not know were to run. I dont beleive they are practicing for an emergency. Not seriously at least. And how could the guy bring an M16 in to the mall in the first place?