Arrest in Prachuap Khiri Khan as Armed Suspect Threatens Explosion, Grenade Fails

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

In a tense standoff in Khiri Khan, a suspect armed with an explosive device was apprehended by police after threatening to detonate it in a suicide attempt. Fortunately, the explosive failed to detonate, allowing officers to make a safe arrest.

The dramatic incident unfolded on the evening of 30 April when officers from three police units, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station, Ao Noi Police Station, and the Provincial Investigation Division, moved in to apprehend Mr. Arthit, also known as “Tech,” aged 34, at a makeshift shelter behind house number 24/2 in Moo 10, Bo Nok Subdistrict.

Police had obtained intelligence that the suspect, who had two outstanding arrest warrants, was hiding in the shelter. Upon arrival, officers called for the suspect to surrender. However, Mr. Arthit emerged in a disturbed state, shouting incoherently while brandishing a live grenade and threatening to kill himself.

The arrest warrants, issued by the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Court earlier this year, were for charges including attempted murder, illegal possession of explosives, conspiracy to commit a serious drug offence, and the unauthorised distribution of methamphetamine.

During the standoff, Mr. Arthit reportedly attempted to detonate the grenade in an apparent suicide attempt. Miraculously, the device malfunctioned, sparing all involved. Officers were then able to de-escalate the situation, at which point the suspect surrendered without further resistance.

Following the arrest, officers confirmed the suspect’s identity against the warrants. He had not previously been detained in relation to these charges. Mr. Arthit was taken into custody and formally charged before being transferred to Ao Noi Police Station for further investigation under the supervision of Deputy Inspector Lt. Col. Suthin Pratchaya.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-02.