21-10-2024 (BANGKOK) Bangkok police successfully apprehended a volatile suspect responsible for a car arson spree and subsequent violent confrontation. The incident, which unfolded over several days, culminated in a tense rooftop standoff that left both the suspect and a police officer injured.
On 21 October 2024, a team led by Police Colonel Kritidet Chanphet, Superintendent of Bang Khun Thian Police Station, executed an arrest warrant for 44-year-old Panathep (surname withheld). The warrant, issued by the Thonburi Criminal Court, charged Panathep with arson and property damage stemming from an incident two days prior.
The saga began on 19 October when authorities responded to reports of a car fire at a private parking garage in the Phasi Charoen District of Bangkok. Upon arrival, they discovered three vehicles—a Mitsubishi Expander, a Toyota Vios, and a Chevrolet Optra—completely engulfed in flames. Forensic evidence and CCTV footage revealed that Panathep had deliberately set the Mitsubishi ablaze using petrol, with the fire subsequently spreading to the other vehicles.
The arrest operation, spearheaded by Police Lieutenant Colonel Chakraphan Thongsaiphon, targeted a two-story house belonging to the suspect’s sister. Employing tactical equipment including bulletproof shields, forked sticks, tasers, and rubber bullet shotguns, the officers approached with caution.
However, the situation quickly escalated as Panathep fled to the roof of a kitchen extension. Armed with a formidable three-foot knife, he lashed out at Police Sergeant Thotsapol Muangkham. Although the officer managed to dodge the blade, he fell from a concrete fence, sustaining abrasions.
In a display of resilience that shocked the officers, Panathep withstood multiple taser shots without yielding. The standoff reached its climax when police resorted to firing rubber bullets, causing the suspect to fall from his rooftop perch. Despite minor injuries, he was swiftly taken into custody.
Subsequent investigations paint a troubling picture of the events leading up to the arson attack. Reportedly unemployed and grappling with addiction to the mobile game ROV (Realm of Valor), Panathep had been exhibiting erratic behaviour. Stress and excessive gaming appear to have culminated in his destructive rampage.
