In a bold pre-emptive operation, Bangkok police uncovered a disturbing stash of weapons hidden across two major educational campuses, raising concerns over the potential for violence ahead of a high-profile school celebration.
On July 29, more than 100 officers were mobilised in Pathum Wan district to conduct a surprise sweep of the Pathumwan Institute of Technology and Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok. The operation, launched just days before the Pathumwan Institute’s 93rd anniversary celebration on August 1, was a direct response to longstanding concerns over violent clashes between rival student groups.
The coordinated crackdown, led by Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom and supported by senior officers including Major Generals Nopasin Phoonsawat and Charin Kopattata, was aimed at ensuring student safety and preventing confrontations that have marred similar events in past years.
Hidden Weapons Raise Security Concerns
During the sweep of the Wang Mai subdistrict campuses, police discovered a total of 16 knives and two black walkie-talkies. The weapons were found hidden in bushes, behind campus buildings, and even under school structures at the Uthenthawai campus. At the Pathumwan Institute of Technology, officers recovered an additional three knives.
“No one has claimed ownership of the weapons,” one officer stated. “All the items have been seized and logged as evidence.”
The discovery has intensified fears of planned confrontations between student groups, many of which have a well-documented history of violent altercations during school anniversaries and social functions. Although no arrests have been announced, authorities are not ruling out further investigations or surveillance.
Police Step Up Monitoring Ahead of Anniversary Event
Bangkok’s police force has vowed to maintain a visible presence around the campuses in the days leading up to the celebration. Administrators at both institutions are reportedly cooperating with authorities, although no official statements have been released.
The sweep is part of a larger strategy to crack down on youth gang violence, particularly within technical colleges. In recent years, student clashes have led to multiple injuries and, in extreme cases, fatalities — prompting public concern and repeated calls for stricter enforcement.
“We are taking these matters seriously,” said a senior police official. “This pre-emptive action is about keeping the peace and ensuring student safety.”
Police have urged members of the public and students to report suspicious behaviour, warning that any disruptions to public order will be dealt with under the full extent of the law.
Safety in Schools Under Scrutiny
The incident has reignited national conversations around student violence and campus safety. Bangkok authorities are now under pressure to review internal security protocols and improve cooperation with educational institutions.
With Bangkok schools increasingly becoming flashpoints for student gang rivalries, officials are expected to announce additional measures to monitor high-risk campuses and prevent further incidents.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by Thai authorities in maintaining public safety within academic environments — and the critical need for both prevention and community collaboration in tackling youth violence.
Image Source: Khao Sod