Phuket Hit-and-Run: Police Hunt Knife-Wielding Trio
A hit-and-run incident near Patong Hospital in Phuket, Thailand, has sparked a police search for three foreign nationals and ignited public outrage after video footage of the incident went viral on social media. The collision, which occurred on March 8, 2024, at approximately 5:15 p. m., left motorcyclist Surasak Kongbua with minor injuries and a damaged motorcycle. However, the suspects' subsequent actions significantly escalated the situation.
Mr. Kongbua, 38, was en route to purchase lighting equipment when a pickup truck, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, struck his motorcycle at the intersection near Patong Hospital. He stated he had a green light. The impact sent him and his motorcycle skidding approximately 20 meters.
As bystanders helped Mr. Kongbua, three young men, appearing to be in their early twenties, emerged from the green pickup truck. The situation worsened when Mr. Kongbua informed them he was calling the police. One man inquired about the police’s estimated time of arrival, creating tension further exacerbated by the intervention of a nearby hotel employee. Attempts at mediation only fueled the confrontation; one passenger verbally accosted the hotel staff and then Mr. Kongbua.
Anticipating further escalation, Mr. Kongbua urged the men to reserve their comments for the authorities, reminding them the incident was on video. This seemingly prompted their escape attempt. Although Mr. Kongbua’s phone screen was damaged in the collision, a bystander recorded the vehicle and its license plate as Mr. Kongbua tried to impede their escape by striking the truck’s window.
The driver braked suddenly, and a passenger opened the door. Fearing for his safety, Mr. Kongbua recoiled. The driver then exited the vehicle and brandished a knife, prompting Mr. Kongbua to feign reaching for a weapon—a bluff that apparently deterred the aggressors. Seizing the opportunity, the three men fled in their truck.
Fortunately, Mr. Kongbua sustained only minor knee injuries, requiring minimal medical attention costing 30 baht. He filed a police report the same day. Despite the suspects remaining at large, Mr. Kongbua praised the Patong Police for their persistent efforts in the ongoing investigation, noting their daily follow-ups and commitment to apprehending those responsible. The incident highlights the importance of road safety and accountability, especially in tourist areas like Patong. The community awaits the apprehension of the three suspects and a resolution to this incident.
