21-Year-Old Sets Fire to Rental Units in Buriram After Consuming Drugs, Destroying 6 Units

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A fire engulfed six single-storey rental units, used as homes, in Prakhon Chai District, Buriram Province on December 22. The blaze, which originated from one of the homes, was reportedly started by a 21-year-old man under the influence of drugs.

 

Police Lieutenant Suphakrit Noptalung, an investigator from Prakhon Chai Police Station, received a report of a fire at the Old Market commercial area in Prakhon Chai Municipality. The densely populated area prompted authorities to mobilise over 10 fire engines from the district and nearby areas to contain the blaze.

 

Despite their efforts, the fire spread rapidly to neighbouring units, causing extensive damage. Firefighters managed to bring the flames under control after 45 minutes, but six homes were severely damaged, with all belongings destroyed.

 

The suspect, identified as Mr. Natthawut Noptalung, was found sitting outside the burning units, laughing and watching the flames consume the buildings. Fearing he might flee, police officers approached and detained him.

 

During questioning, Mr. Natthawut admitted to setting the fire. He claimed to have used a lighter to ignite his mother’s sarong inside the house. Once it caught fire, he threw it around the room, causing the fire to spread uncontrollably. He confessed to leaving the house and watching the fire spread but could not explain his motive.

 

According to the suspect’s grandmother, Ms. Ruean Kaikaew, 67, who shared the rental unit with him and his mother, Mr. Natthawut had a history of drug use, including kratom and cannabis. She suspected that he had consumed an excessive amount, which may have triggered hallucinations and erratic behaviour.

 

Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as tenants from neighbouring units fled with their belongings to escape the fire. Many expressed shock at seeing Mr. Natthawut sitting across the street, laughing as he observed the destruction.

 

Police have taken Mr. Natthawut into custody for further questioning at Prakhon Chai Police Station. If sufficient evidence is gathered, he is expected to face charges of arson, which carries severe penalties under Thai law.

 

Authorities are continuing their investigation and assessing the damage caused by the fire, which has left multiple families displaced and traumatised.

 

-- 2024-12-23

 

 

[hotchilli]

7 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

A fire engulfed six single-storey rental units, used as homes, in Prakhon Chai District, Buriram Province on December 22. The blaze, which originated from one of the homes, was reportedly started by a 21-year-old man under the influence of drugs.

Idiot