Picture from responders.

 

Police have arrested a 38-year-old man suspected of deliberately setting fire to a school in Satun province. The suspect, identified as Thanit Nuthongkaew, was found to be under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident, with a urine test confirming the presence of narcotics.

 

The fire broke out late at night on 22 March, at Nikom Phatthana Phang 42 School in Udaicharoen, Khuan Kalong district. Authorities reported that six separate locations within the school were set ablaze, causing significant damage. However, thanks to the swift response of responders, school staff and local residents, the fires were extinguished before spreading further.

 

Following the incident, authorities reviewed CCTV footage, which showed a man entering the school at 23:10 and moving towards the rear of the premises. Police later arrested Thanit at his home, approximately 300 metres from the school. Officers reported that he appeared confused and incoherent at the time of his arrest.

 

Local officials revealed that Thanit was a known drug user who had previously exhibited erratic behaviour. This was the second time he had targeted the school, with a previous incident involving vandalism. Witnesses also recalled occasions when he had wandered onto school grounds carrying a machete, forcing the 60 students to seek shelter indoors.

 

His grandfather, Thin Nuthongkaew, expressed concern over his behaviour, stating that Thanit frequently experienced severe hallucinations, believing that stones he collected were sacred relics. “He stays outside most nights, talking to himself and refusing to sleep indoors,” Thin said. “Everyone in the family is afraid of him, but we don’t know where else he can go.”

 

Thanit had been arrested once before on drug-related charges but had never undergone rehabilitation.

 

Following the incident, Satun Deputy Governor Kanit Kongchuay visited the school to reassure staff and students. He urged schools across the province to remain vigilant and implement emergency response plans in case of similar threats.

 

“Thanks to the quick thinking of teachers, parents, and local residents, the damage was contained,” he said. “But all schools must stay alert and report any suspicious activity immediately.”

 

Police have taken Thanit into custody at Khuan Kalong Police Station for further questioning as they continue their investigation into the motive behind the attack.

 

 

-- 2025-03-24

 

7 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

was found to be under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident