Bangkok: The body of a police informant who jumped into the turbulent waters to assist in apprehending a drug trafficking gang has been discovered after being swept away by flash floods in the Mae Mok stream, located in Thoen District, Lampang Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the tragic incident unfolded when 46-year-old Mr. Natthaphong, a dedicated police informant, was involved in a sting operation against a local drug trafficking network. During the operation, the suspects became aware of the police presence and attempted to flee by jumping into the Mae Mok Stream. In a courageous effort to aid in their capture, Mr. Natthaphong also jumped into the water but was unfortunately carried away by the strong currents.
Efforts to locate Mr. Natthaphong were immediately initiated, with rescuers and divers conducting an extensive search throughout the night. Despite their diligent efforts, the search was temporarily suspended at midnight when no bodies were found. Meanwhile, the authorities succeeded in apprehending all members of the drug trafficking network involved in the operation.
The following morning, at approximately 10:30 a.m., police received a report from local villagers about a body spotted in Huai Mae Mok, approximately 300 meters from the original point of disappearance. Responding swiftly, police officers, alongside members from the Thoen Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, rescue personnel, and civilian volunteers, rushed to the location.
Upon arrival, the responders found the body entangled in a clump of tamarind trees in the middle of the stream. The body was carefully retrieved from the water and subsequently transported to Thoen Hospital for a detailed examination, bringing a somber close to the intensive search and rescue operation.