PHUKET — A community event at Saphan Hin Public Park turned into a scene of chaos late Tuesday night when rival teenage groups engaged in a violent confrontation, prompting a swift police response that resulted in three arrests and the confiscation of dangerous weapons.

Festival Chaos Erupts

At around 10:30 p.m., Phuket City Police were alerted to a disturbance during a local gathering for subdistrict heads and village leaders. Witnesses reported 3–4 youths chasing each other with knives, while one group hurled a large firecracker and another brandished what appeared to be a firearm. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the alarming escalation.

Police Crackdown

Authorities quickly mobilized, reviewing CCTV footage and eyewitness statements to track down the suspects. By 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, three individuals—Chatchai (20), Ongart (20), and Ekkasit (21)—were apprehended.

Seized items included:

• A homemade pen-style gun

• A .38 caliber bullet

• A 14.5-inch knife sheath

• A 6-inch folding knife

• A metal knuckle duster

Drug Use and Legal Consequences

Urine tests revealed all three suspects had consumed methamphetamine, compounding their legal troubles. Charges filed against them include:

• Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition

• Carrying weapons in public without cause

• Methamphetamine use

Additional charges were pressed individually: for attempted unlawful firearm discharge, for illegal knife possession, for brass knuckles possession and driving under drug influence

The suspects remain in custody at Phuket City Police Station as investigations continue.

-Thailand News (TN)