Bangkok Teenagers Arrested With Firearms, Cite Fear for Self-Defence

[snoop1130]

 

In Bangkok, two teenagers were arrested last evening in Sai Mai District when their suspicious behaviour during a routine patrol caught the attention of local police. Found in possession of homemade firearms, the youths claim self-defence against threats of violence as their rationale for carrying such weapons.

 

The arrest occurred around 10:40 pm on November 20, with Deputy Superintendent Sanchai Kirirat and team, led by Captain Nukun Kingklao. They noticed the boys, both riding a single motorcycle near the Phahonyothin Soi 54/1 intersection, appearing visibly nervous at the sight of law enforcement.

 

Their jittery behaviour prompted police to stop and search them, which led to the discovery of the concealed weapons. The 15-year-old driver, referred to as A for confidentiality reasons, had a .22 calibre pen gun hidden in his trouser pocket. His passenger, a 16-year-old identified as B, was found in possession of a .38 calibre homemade firearm.

 

 

In a statement made later, the Sai Mai police spokesman said, "The youths confessed that the firearms and ammunition were indeed theirs". When questioned, they claimed the weapons were for self-defence, due to perceived threats to their safety. Consequently, they were arrested and charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition without a permit, and carrying firearms in a public place without urgent necessity.

 

Despite the gravity of their crimes, the teenagers, when given the chance to explain, presented a chilling testament to their fear. A currently studies via a non-formal education programme, while B attends a vocational college in the Min Buri area. Both expressed intense fears of being ambushed which compelled them to carry firearms for protection.

 

Following their admissions, the duo was formally charged and their case transferred to the Sai Mai Investigation Division. As the judicial process unfolds, it underlines the troubling issues of youth violence and the perceived need for self-defence amidst the city's teenagers.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-21