Police Foil Grenade Attack Linked to Social Media Feud

Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

Bangkok Metropolitan Police have arrested a suspect carrying four hand grenades outside a rival’s home, preventing what authorities say could have been a deadly attack in a residential area. The arrest took place late at night, in Soi Arun Amarin 45, Bang Phlat district, after officers responded to reports of a violent dispute. Police said the intervention stopped an incident that could have caused serious loss of life.

The suspect was identified as Mr Manae Kaewsanga, also known as “Auan Tha Nam Thewet”, aged 40. He was detained by a special operations unit of the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Crime Suppression Division while parked near the home of “Nae Wat Dao”, a former well-known social media personality. Officers discovered four military-grade hand grenades in his possession.

The seized explosives were identified as one M26, one M61, one M67 and one GR73 grenade. Police said the suspect admitted during preliminary questioning that he intended to attack his rival at home. He claimed the dispute had escalated following repeated confrontations and challenges on social media.

According to investigators, the conflict stemmed from underground business disagreements combined with ongoing online provocation between the two sides. Intelligence units had been monitoring both groups for some time after detecting rising tensions and unusual movements. A source confirmed police received advance information that the suspect was travelling to the target location.

Officers from Samsen and Bang Yi Khan police stations were deployed to intercept the suspect before he could act. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams were called in to secure and remove the grenades safely. The suspect was taken into custody without injuries reported.

Police charged Mr Manae with illegal possession of explosive devices without authorisation. He was handed over to investigators at Bang Yi Khan Police Station for further legal proceedings. Authorities confirmed the explosives were being held as evidence under strict security.

A background check revealed the suspect is also wanted under three outstanding arrest warrants. These relate to serious offences including coercion, firearms violations, armed robbery and drug-related charges involving conspiracy to distribute narcotics. Police said coordination is under way with relevant jurisdictions to pursue these cases.

Investigators believe the swift operation prevented a potential mass-casualty incident in a densely populated neighbourhood. Police reiterated warnings that online disputes escalating into real-world violence would be dealt with decisively. They also urged the public to report suspicious behaviour immediately.

Thaitabloid reported that further questioning and forensic examinations are continuing as authorities expand the investigation. Police are assessing whether additional individuals were involved or provided support. More charges may follow as evidence is reviewed.

Key Takeaways

• Police arrested a suspect carrying four grenades before an alleged planned attack in Bangkok.

• The suspect admitted intending to attack a rival after a prolonged social media dispute.

• Authorities confirmed the suspect faces additional charges linked to three existing arrest warrants.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thaitabloid 2026-01-30