Picture courtesy of Daily News.

 

Police in Phuket are pursuing members of the so-called “Sap Jang” gang after a group of youths hurled homemade ping-pong bombs and fired gunshots in Wichit subdistrict, causing damage to vehicles and sparking alarm among residents.

 

The incident occurred at 23:55 on 30 August, when the gang targeted a car repair shop in Soi Taweesap. Gunfire shattered vehicle windows and spent cartridges were later recovered from the scene. CCTV footage helped police identify the culprits, most of whom are under 18 years old.

 

On 31 August, Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang, superintendent of Wichit Police Station, ordered investigation teams and patrol units to track down the gang members. Several suspects, believed to be active participants in both the shooting and the bomb attacks, have since been arrested.

 

Pol Col Somsak said the suspects face multiple charges, including possession and use of firearms without a licence, discharging a firearm in public and unlawful assembly with intent to cause violence. The offences carry prison sentences of up to five years.

 

He also warned that police will pursue charges against parents who allow their children to engage in violent or criminal activity.

 

“This gang has caused serious disruption and fear in the community. We will prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law and hold parents accountable if they neglect their duty of supervision,” Pol Col Somsak stated.

 

Authorities said further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-09-02

 

 

 

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

a group of youths hurled homemade ping-pong bombs and fired gunshots in Wichit subdistrict, causing damage to vehicles and sparking alarm among residents.

Does every school in the big cities have these types of gangs now? Why is there news about Child gangs every other day attacking and causing damage and wreaking havoc? 

 

I am also curious how these and many many other children are learning tto make pingpong bombs so effectively.  Is it part of their education among peers? 

This destructive behavior is now seen nationwide. 

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

He also warned that police will pursue charges against parents who allow their children to engage in violent or criminal activity.

 

“This gang has caused serious disruption and fear in the community. We will prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law and hold parents accountable if they neglect their duty of supervision,” Pol Col Somsak stated.

 

These are strong words. I would really like to see it happen or is this just another threat to collect money. As a parent myself, it is our responsibility to know what our child is doing and to guide and discipline them to ensure they do what is good. How are so many Thai children left to go out late, to be part of these gangs, and to make such weapons and.carry them without the parents knowledge? The parents are ultimately responsible.