Two brothers from New Zealand who were detained in Thailand following an assault on a police officer in Phuket have returned home after spending close to four months in custody. The New Zealand Herald confirmed that Hamish and Mattson Day have arrived back in their country, although the exact date of their return was not disclosed.
In a written statement, the Day family requested privacy and space for the brothers and their loved ones in the upcoming weeks as they readjust and focus on their well-being. They expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support received from family, friends, and the New Zealand Government. The family also mentioned that they will not be offering further comments on the situation.
The brothers, aged 36 and 38, were arrested on March 16 during their holiday in Phuket and faced charges including assaulting a police officer, robbery, obstruction of police duty, driving without a license, and bribery. After appearing in court in Phuket, they were remanded in custody. Details regarding the resolution of the cases against them were not provided, but their visas were canceled, and they were banned from returning to Thailand.
The incident that involved the brothers was captured on video and circulated widely on social media, causing shock among viewers. The footage showed Mattson Day in a physical altercation with a police officer while Hamish Day was seen holding the officer’s firearm.
The Phuket police chief, Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, stated that the confrontation began when the brothers failed to comply with a police officer’s instructions to stop for speeding on rented motorcycles. Despite the officer’s request for their licenses, the brothers allegedly attempted to bribe him. When the policeman refused the bribe and instructed them to settle the matter at the police station, the situation escalated.
As tensions escalated, one of the brothers attacked the officer, leading to a scuffle where the officer’s gun was seized temporarily. Although a gunshot was fired during the altercation, no injuries were reported. The arrival of additional police prevented the situation from worsening.
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