BANGKOK, Oct 4 (TNA) – The police have pressed five serious charges against a 14-year-old youth related to the shooting incident that occurred within the Siam Paragon shopping mall, resulting in two fatalities and five injuries.
The investigation also involves questioning the youth’s parents about potential violations of child protection laws.
Pol Maj Gen Nakharin Sukonthavit, commander of the Metropolitan Police 6 said the preliminary investigation led to the police filing charges against the minor on five counts, including premeditated murder, attempted murder, possession of firearms without permission, carrying firearms in public areas without authorization, and discharging a firearm in a public place without permission.
Further charges may be considered as primary evidence and witnesses are still being sought. Moreover, the parents of the youth are under investigation to determine whether they bear any legal responsibility under child protection laws.
The arrested youth is currently in police custody at the Pathumwan Police Station and will be transferred to juvenile court for further proceedings. He will undergo psychiatric evaluation and counseling to assess his mental state.
A search of the suspect’s residence in the Laksong area last night uncovered a substantial quantity of ammunition, leading to the initiation of another case related to this discovery.
Meanwhile, Pol Capt Thanamorn Noonart from the Pathumwan Police Station, who led the team responding to the incident raised suspicions stated that the young perpetrator might have had some expertise in handling firearms, given the presence of firearm-related equipment and his familiarity with using weapons, suggesting potential prior training. (TNA)
