21-6-2023 (BANGKOK) In the early hours of Tuesday, a dramatic rescue unfolded in Bangkok’s Min Buri district as a hostage, who had been dragged into a car by armed men, called for help and was successfully freed when they approached a police checkpoint.
The victim, identified as Uthen, 40, emerged unharmed, while his alleged captors, five individuals traveling in two vehicles, were swiftly apprehended. Authorities seized six firearms and a stash of ammunition from the suspects.
The incident occurred around 12:30 am when police manning a drink driving checkpoint on Rom Klao Road heard a desperate cry for help emanating from a Chevrolet car. Responding promptly, they intercepted the vehicle along with a Toyota car trailing closely behind.
All five men were promptly arrested, and Uthen was rescued from his ordeal. A subsequent search of the two vehicles led to the discovery of six guns and 61 rounds of ammunition. The suspects were then transported to Min Buri police station for further investigation.
According to Mr. Uthen’s statement to the police, two of the alleged abductors had approached him earlier while he was dining at a restaurant in the Rom Klao area. They were armed and used force to coerce him into their vehicle. Despite recognizing one of the assailants, Uthen insisted he had no previous disputes with the group.
Uthen recounted how the suspects threatened his life and forcibly dragged him into the car, proceeding to speed away. It was during this terrifying journey that he noticed their approach to a police checkpoint, prompting him to cry out for assistance.
Expressing immense relief, Mr. Uthen conveyed his gratitude to the police for their swift response and successful rescue operation.
Pol Col Jamorn Thongphan, superintendent of Traffic Police Sub-division 1, confirmed that the five suspects attempted to flee as traffic police converged on their vehicles upon hearing the distress call. However, their escape was short-lived as they were swiftly captured.
While the suspects have acknowledged their familiarity with the victim, they have thus far remained tight-lipped about the details of the abduction.
Following the incident, Mr. Uthen was taken to a hospital for a medical examination. In the meantime, his relatives lodged a complaint at Rom Klao police station, accusing the suspects of physical assault and illegal detention.
Initial charges of illegal possession of weapons will be filed against the suspects by Min Buri police, Pol Col Jamorn confirmed.
The five individuals in custody have been identified as Nukul, 41, Montri, 37, Wissanu, 33, Ekkapong, 37, and Arthit, 41. Authorities will continue to interrogate the suspects to shed light on the motives and circumstances surrounding the abduction.
