Scout Camp in Chaos as Armed Man Attacks Volunteer in Prachinburi

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

A scout camp in Prachinburi province was thrown into chaos when an armed young man stormed the premises and attacked a volunteer after being asked to leave. The shocking incident left students, parents, and staff shaken as they participated in a campfire activity.

Police from Kabin Buri Police Station reported that the incident occurred at approximately 21:00 on 6 March at a well-known school in Wang Dan subdistrict. The school was hosting a scout and girl guide camp, with parents in attendance to watch their children’s activities.

The suspect, an 18-year-old man known as Mr Pond, entered the school grounds wielding a knife. A local volunteer from the Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Corps noticed the armed intruder and attempted to remove him from the premises. However, the suspect resisted, leading to a confrontation.

According to Mr Anan, another volunteer, three volunteers were stationed at the school that evening to assist with traffic control. When they spotted the suspect carrying what appeared to be a machete, approximately 25cm in length, they became concerned for the safety of those present.

“We all knew he was a psychiatric patient,” Mr Anan stated. “We tried to ask him politely to leave, but he became agitated and aggressive.”

During the altercation, the suspect lunged at Mr Samai, a volunteer providing security for the event. While Mr Samai managed to dodge the first attempted stabbing, the suspect swung the blade again, striking his arm. Fortunately, the knife failed to cause serious injury. He immediately called the police.

Following the incident a female teacher relayed that the headteacher had been informed of the situation but declined to comment, citing the school’s internal concerns.

Mr Samai also was unable to comment, as he was at work on an industrial estate and declined to be interviewed, fearing that discussing the event could harm the school’s reputation.

The suspect’s grandfather, Mr Thongkham confirmed that his grandson suffers from a psychiatric condition and becomes aggressive when challenged.

“I still don’t know exactly what happened last night,” he admitted. “But I heard my grandson attacked a volunteer and was taken away by the police.”

The suspect’s father, Mr Sompong also confirmed his son’s mental health issues.

“I separated from my wife long ago and have been working in a factory. My son has been living with his grandparents,” he explained. “I wish I could get him proper treatment, but I simply don’t know where to turn.”

Mr Sompong expressed regret over the incident and apologised to those affected.

The suspect remains in police custody while authorities investigate the case further.

-- 2025-03-08