Cops arrest 7 'bomb-making teens'

Cops arrest 7 'bomb-making teens'

Devices intended for Sunday protest

Seven teenagers have been arrested in Nakhon Pathom for allegedly making improvised explosive devices intended for use at a protest rally planned for Sunday.

Pol Maj Gen Piya Tawichai, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said that police at Pho Kaew station and detectives from Provincial Police Region 7 arrested the young men in possession of 18 improvised explosive devices and illegal drugs at an apartment in the town.

He said that during interrogation, the suspects admitted gathering at the apartment to make bombs, which they intended to use at the rally in Bangkok this Sunday.

Three suspects were identified as Apiwat Phuangmalai, Komsan (Tang) Wanachalermdej, and Teh Thongdee, all 19 years old, while the other four teenagers were aged between 13 and 17 years old. Their names have been withheld.

All were charged with illegally possessing explosive devices and using narcotics.

"The suspects are known to have taken part in protests in the Din Daeng area and nearby Victory Monument multiple times," Pol Maj Gen Piya said.

The police made the arrests following a tip-off about a suspicious gathering of teens at an apartment in tambon Krathumlom of Nakhon Pathom's Sam Phran District.

When police arrived, they found the teenagers smoking cannabis and after a search, they also found the explosive devices.

Pol Maj Gen Piya said the suspects also confessed to having made small bombs with friends for use in protests in which they had previously taken part.

On Tuesday protesters threw pipe and ping-pong bombs as well as fireworks at police and at government property, he said. Those responsible would face legal action, he added.

The deputy commissioner also said earlier yesterday that protesters planned to rally again in the evening outside parliament, the Royal Thai Police headquarters, and at Din Daeng intersection.

Protests have been taking place on an almost daily basis for several weeks, often resulting in clashes with police.

"Since last month, police have arrested 284 demonstrators and summoned 127 others, including 16 rally leaders, for violating a number of laws.

"Another 597 people will also be prosecuted for the same offences," Pol Maj Gen Piya added.

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT (2)