Bangkok: Prisoners at Klong Prem Prison engaged in a violent altercation, resulting in serious injuries to a prison guard after being hit with a baton during meal delivery. The incident culminated in the breaking of the baton, and both guards involved are reported to be safe.
According to Thai News Agency, the clash occurred when Mr. Kriangsak, a detainee at Klong Prem Central Prison, assaulted officers and caused damage to government property. The attack injured two officers, Mr. Sombat Sampanthamas and Mr. Mingthap Songchan, with Mr. Sombat sustaining a cracked head and swelling on his ear. He was subsequently hospitalized for a brain x-ray.
Pol. Lt. Col. Chain Kanchanapat, deputy director-general of the Department of Corrections, clarified that Mr. Kriangsak is a detainee under the JSOC project, aimed at preventing re-offending, and not a regular prisoner. Previously convicted of sexual offenses and domestic assault, he was transferred from Klong Phai Central Prison due to concerns over his behavior.
During the altercation, the detainee overpowered the guards, taking a baton from a 58-year-old officer and using it to inflict injuries. The detainee, described as younger and larger, has been ordered by the court to remain in detention for an additional three years for behavioral evaluation. This incident marks his first attack on prison staff, although he has been known to exhibit destructive behavior.
Mr. Chan Wachiradech, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections and acting Commander of Klong Prem Central Prison, stated that the detainee will undergo medical assessment at Srithanya. Despite the severity of the incident, both injured guards are recovering and are now safe.