Loei – A police officer remains missing after a high-risk pursuit on the Loei River ended in tragedy Monday afternoon, when a commandeered boat capsized during the chase of a suspect wanted for child sexual assault.

Bangkok wallet snatcher falls off bridge during pursuit

The incident unfolded around 4:30 PM when officers Pol Lt Roengsak Khuak Khiew and Pol Sgt Anantachai Thophawong responded to a theft report at Ban Kang Pla scrapyard. During their investigation, they encountered a man initially identifying himself as Wasan before discovering his true identity as Yotsaran Janta, a 25-year-old fugitive with an active arrest warrant for assaulting a minor under 15.

As the suspect fled into the raging Loei River, the officers commandeered a nearby boat to continue their pursuit. Treacherous currents and hidden rocks capsized the vessel, ejecting both policemen into the water. While Pol Sgt Anantachai managed to swim ashore, Pol Lt Roengsak – a deputy crime suppression officer – was swept away by the violent flow.

Muang Loei Police Chief Pol Col Natthakrit Kamwisetchai mobilized dive teams who scoured the river for hours amid heavy rainfall before suspending operations at 11:10 PM. The search resumed at dawn Tuesday with expanded parameters, though neither the missing officer nor the suspect has been located.

Authorities confirmed Yotsaran’s warrant stems from severe charges under Thailand’s Child Protection Act. The capsizing highlights the dangers of monsoon-season river operations, with local officials noting the Loei’s currents are particularly hazardous following recent storms.

Pursuing policeman shot dead by motorcyclist in Nakhon Ratchasima

The police force has established a crisis center to support the missing officer’s family while continuing recovery efforts. Provincial governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum pledged additional resources for the search operation, stating, “We will not rest until our officer is found.”

-Thailand News (TN)