Midnight Drama as Distressed Monk Threatens to Jump from Bridge

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A dramatic late-night rescue unfolded in Krabi as emergency services intervened to prevent a monk from taking his own life. The monk, reportedly distressed over a dispute with a fellow clergyman, was found holding a jerrycan of petrol, a knife, and a box of matches while threatening to jump from a pedestrian bridge.

 

At approximately 23:45 on 27 March, Ao Luek Police Station received an alert regarding a man attempting to jump from a pedestrian bridge in front of Ao Luek Prachasarn School, Ao Luek Nuea subdistrict, Ao Luek district. Officers, along with emergency responders from Ao Luek Tai Municipality and the Pitak Pracha Rescue Unit, rushed to the scene.

 

Upon arrival, they identified the individual as Phra Santi, a 50-year-old monk. He appeared highly agitated, clutching a jerrycan of petrol and matches while expressing feelings of distress and regret. Authorities attempted to calm him through negotiation, but at one point, he made a move to leap from the bridge. In a swift and coordinated effort, officers tackled him to safety before transferring him to Ao Luek Hospital for further care.

 

Mr Pratip Paklao, 38, a member of the rescue team, described the tense moments leading up to the intervention. “At 23:45 we received an initial report from the Krabi emergency command centre about an individual attempting to jump from the bridge. However, when we arrived, he was no longer there.”

 

Shortly after, at 00:25 another call came through from the Pitak Pracha Villa Ao Luek rescue team. Phra Santi had phoned them, stating that he intended to jump from the same bridge and asking them to collect his body. Upon receiving this distressing message, police and emergency teams raced back to the scene.

 

When officers arrived, they found Phra Santi standing on the bridge, visibly emotional. He continued to express his despair over a recent argument with a fellow monk at his temple. Police negotiators carefully engaged him in conversation, creating an opportunity for officers to subdue him safely.

 

Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of alcohol consumption. Initial investigations suggest that the incident stemmed from emotional distress following a dispute within the temple.

 

Phra Santi is now receiving medical and psychological support as officials continue their inquiries into the matter.

 

-- 2025-03-29

 

[flyingtlger]

18 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

The monk, reportedly distressed over a dispute with a fellow clergyman

He's not a real monk.....