Phuket—
The Wichit Police ’s ongoing crackdown on youth motorcycle gangs has brought big results, including the seizure of homemade explosives and firearms.
The Wichit Police told the Phuket Express that the initial operation took place on Friday (April 4th), involving checkpoints and patrols targeting underage youth gathering after 10:00 P.M.. The officers focused on suppressing illegal racing, ensuring traffic law compliance, and addressing frequent public complaints. The operation resulted in the confiscation of 10 motorcycles and the detention of 17 individuals under the age of 18. Parents were summoned for legal briefings as part of efforts to enforce the Child Protection Act of 2003.
Later that day, the investigation intensified following the discovery of potential links between the detained suspects and dangerous weapons. Police then led a series of raids in Wichit and surrounding areas. Their efforts led to the confiscation of two improvised explosive devices, a homemade firearm, ammunition, and a machete hidden at the residence of a gang member.
The youth gang, known as the “Outlaw Gang,” comprises over 15 members aged between 14 and 15, most of whom are middle school students. The group’s leader, a 17-year-old identified only as “Tee,” was apprehended and later escorted to a residence in Koh Sirey, Rassada, where additional evidence was seized. Charges include illegal possession of explosives and firearms under Thai law.
The homemade explosives were crafted using online tutorials and consisted of gunpowder and rocks wrapped in paper and bound with black tape. The devices were reportedly intended for use in gang conflicts, posing a lethal threat to rivals and bystanders.
