Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Samurai Gang Arrested


Photo Courtesy of Bangkok Biz News

CHIANG MAI – A gang of under-18-year-old samurai wanna-be’s have been slashing motorcycle riders for weeks; slicing them and stealing their possessions. But today they were all arrested. One of the gang members is only 15-years-old - collectively, they have cut down five people in planned ambushes.

Today, Police Colonel Aksorn Wongyai from Maephing police station in Chiang Mai informed the press of the arrests of all three members of the gang which has come as a relief for troubled locals.

The members are Mr. Thaigaew Saephang, 18-years-old, Mr. Chanon Saewang, 18-years-old, and a 15-year-old boy who cannot be officially identified. The police confiscated their belongings which included, three Honda Wave motorcycles, one mobile phone, and 16 inch long Sexizo Samurai blades. They were charged with robbery and the intention to kill. They were arrested at Sri Kong Public Park in Chiang Mai.

One of the victims was Mr. Danai Kamlao 32-years-old. The victim was riding his motorcycle alone near Sri Kong Park when suddenly the samurai gang appeared behind him on their Honda Wave motorcycles. They rode up to him and knocked him off his bike; then sunk a samurai sword into his gut, and slashed his head and body – the victims left arm was left dangling from being only half chopped. Mr. Kamlao, however, managed to survive and was sent to hospital. The gang stole his wallet containing a few hundred baht, his mobile phone, and the motorbike he was riding.

According to Colonel Aksorn, the samurai gang typically gathered at the park and waited for someone to pass before they attacked. When the opportunity presented itself, they would target their victims and slash them to near death before stealing the little money they carried. Afterwards, they would use the money to go chill at a karaoke bar.

Police considered reducing the sentences because of the age of the culprits but have since stuck to their decisions after investigating the brutal history of the group.

During their arrests at the station, one of the raging victims who recovered came and punched the 15–year-old straight in the face.

Courtesy of Bangkok Biz News

Writer: Adrian Tse & Chet Chetchotisak