Photo credit CH7
A foreign man entered the premises with a gun, threatening the restaurant owner and boldly claiming that he had support from high-ranking police officials. Surveillance cameras within the restaurant captured the man’s actions as he rode a motorcycle, barged into the establishment, and caused a disturbance by striking a table where customers were seated. The owner promptly intervened, banning the man from re-entering the restaurant, an incident that took place on April 12th.
On May 3rd, the same foreign man returned to the restaurant to confront the owner once more, this time armed with a gun and making menacing statements, asserting his perceived invincibility due to his alleged police backing.
Journalists visited the chicken rice restaurant situated opposite the Tambon Thong Market in the municipal area of Buri Ram. They interviewed Ms. Kam, a 38-year-old restaurant proprietor, who detailed her acquaintance with the 55-year-old suspect from England. She mentioned that he had previously assisted in procuring materials for a large marijuana cultivation project but distanced himself later due to his combative nature and tendency to stir up conflicts.
Following the banning of the suspect from the restaurant, he reportedly made threats of violence, resulting in the closure of the establishment as a safety precaution for the owner and customers. Despite these actions, the suspect persisted in his confrontational behavior, necessitating the intervention of police forces from Nakhon Ratchasima province, equipped with full gear, to ensure security.
Initial complaints were registered at the Buri Ram city police station, urging swift action to apprehend the suspect for legal proceedings.
Reporters verified the suspect’s residence in Kok Yai Village, Issan Subdistrict, and subsequently located Ms. Pin, a 52-year-old chairwoman of the local administrative organization. She indicated that the suspect, who had a Thai spouse, was overseeing the construction of a large-scale marijuana plantation in the village. Noting his tendency to assist with community activities, she also highlighted his propensity for disruptive behavior when under the influence.
Simultaneously, the police summoned the restaurant owner for further inquiry, while arrangements were made for the suspect to surrender himself in Buri Ram city with the assistance of a translator to facilitate the interrogation process and ensure fairness for all involved parties.