Khon Kaen: Police are preparing to charge five former military conscripts with assault for attacking a parade car host. The knife-wielding perpetrator confessed, claiming that he was drunk at the time of the incident and picked up the knife on the ground to defend himself, and did not intend to commit the crime.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred at a merit-making event in Sri Sombun Village, Kranuan District. Mr. Kanokpol, also known as Tong, aged 30, who was the host of the event, posted a video of the altercation. The event, intended to dedicate merit to deceased ancestors, turned chaotic when a group of local teenagers clashed with attendees, alleging that they were stepped on during dancing. Despite Mr. Kanokpol's attempts to negotiate, the situation escalated, leading to violence. It was revealed that the aggressors were former soldiers, and the incident took place at 6:07 p.m. on February 22.
On the day following the incident, Mr. Kanokpol, who was injured, along with his mother, came to the Khuanuan Police Station to provide additional statements. Another injured party, Mr. Jakrin, 20, also gave his statement, detailing his injuries from the incident. Mr. Kanokpol mentioned that the mother of one of the perpetrators had offered to discuss compensation for the damages.
The investigation officer at Kranuan Police Station summoned the perpetrators, including a 27-year-old who admitted to wielding a knife during the scuffle. He claimed his actions were in self-defense, emphasizing that he did not intend harm but acted under the influence of alcohol during the altercation.
The chief of the Kranuan Police Station reported that the injured parties filed a complaint soon after the incident. The merit-making ceremony, which featured a hired parade float, attracted local spectators and dancers, including the victims who were subsequently attacked by the group of teenagers. The police are continuing their investigation, questioning both parties involved and reviewing medical examinations of the injured to build a case for joint assault charges.
Preliminary investigations confirmed that the main perpetrator had been discharged from military service and was no longer an active soldier. The perpetrator's family has expressed willingness to compensate the victims. The police have assured that they will conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice for all parties involved.