Chiang Rai: Police in Chiang Rai have charged a pickup truck driver, Mr. Kritsakorn, for assaulting a university student, Mr. Pattanasak, and have sent the vehicle involved for inspection by the transport department. The driver alleges that he was provoked by an insult.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred on January 20 near Chiang Rai Technical College, where Mr. Kritsakorn, 41, attacked Mr. Pattanasak, 20, by punching him in the face and body. The altercation began after Mr. Pattanasak stopped at a clock tower roundabout to let other cars pass, prompting Mr. Kritsakorn to honk, gesture, and curse at him. Mr. Kritsakorn reportedly followed Mr. Pattanasak, emitted black smoke from his vehicle, and eventually confronted him, causing injuries that included a split eyebrow and a bloody mouth.
Following the attack, Mr. Pattanasak posted a video of the incident, which drew criticism online as an act of bullying. He detailed the sequence of events and expressed fear of returning to his school due to its proximity to the scene.
Police have since questioned Mr. Kritsakorn and inspected his vehicle, discovering outstanding issues such as unpaid taxes, a covered license plate, and a modified exhaust. The vehicle was sent to the Chiang Rai Provincial Transport Office for further examination to determine if it emits excessive black smoke, which could lead to additional charges.
Authorities are currently gathering evidence regarding the physical assault to assess the injuries sustained by Mr. Pattanasak and to consider appropriate legal action against Mr. Kritsakorn. Legal proceedings will follow based on the evidence collected.