Phetchabun: Teen Gang Shoots at Car and Assaults Man in Public Market

Picture courtesy of Naewna.

Public outrage has erupted across social media after a shocking incident involving a group of teenagers firing gunshots at a vehicle and then abducting and assaulting a man at a local market.

The violent confrontation, which took place in central Phetchabun on 28 June, was captured in a viral video clip originally shared by a local news page. According to reports, a group of youths opened fire on a car in the Nong Naree public park before forcibly taking a man, believed to be connected to an earlier shooting and beating him in full view of bystanders at Pho Chan Market.

Footage of the incident shows the victim sitting on the ground, surrounded by four to five young men. One of the attackers is seen kicking the victim in the face, while a shocked female voice can be heard reacting off-camera. The video sparked widespread condemnation, with many questioning the breakdown of law and order in the city.

Online commentators were quick to voice their anger: “This is no longer a civilised town, it’s lawless!” one post read. Another asked, “How can anyone feel safe when they shoot at cars and beat people in the street?”

However, a different perspective has emerged from individuals claiming to be close to the gang involved in the assault. They allege that the initial gunfire came from a rival group, who fired several rounds at their vehicle while they were relaxing at the park. Photos of bullet holes in a car window, reportedly containing a child at the time, were shared in an attempt to justify the violent retaliation.

A source close to the group claimed the teens were preparing to return home when they were attacked, prompting them to track down and confront a man they believed to be responsible. When questioned, the man gave unclear responses, which allegedly led to the beating seen in the video.

In an official statement, Phetchabun City Police confirmed that the man who was assaulted was not the individual responsible for the initial shooting. Officers have since apprehended suspects from both sides of the conflict and are pursuing legal action. The suspected gunman has been identified and is currently being sought by authorities.

Police said they are conducting a thorough investigation to prevent any further incidents, as repeated acts of violence continue to unsettle local residents.

The episode has sparked a wider discussion on youth violence, illegal possession of firearms and public confidence in the justice system. While the clip has galvanised public attention, some observers caution against rushing to judgment based on a single video, stressing the importance of context and due process.

As investigations continue, many are left asking: will justice be served or will yet another viral video come to symbolise the failings of the system?

  Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-06-29