Suspects in Police Shooting Over E-Cigarette Sting Operation Surrender in Pathum Thani
Two men who opened fire on police officers during a sting operation to purchase e-cigarettes in Pathum Thani, Thailand, have surrendered themselves to authorities after arrest warrants were issued for their alleged involvement in the violent incident. The dramatic turn of events unfolded after a planned undercover operation spiralled into chaos, leaving two officers injured and prompting a manhunt.
On June 30, 2025, a team from Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station set up a controlled purchase of illegal e-cigarettes outside a convenience store at Flat Platong in Bang Phun Subdistrict, Mueang District. The suspects quickly realised they were dealing with undercover officers and retaliated with gunfire. The sudden attack left 28-year-old police commander Pol. S.T.O. Atsanai Ruangsai and 53-year-old volunteer officer Mr. Aphichai Chuenchai wounded. The suspects then fled the scene in a bronze-grey Honda Civic, sparking an urgent search.
Arrest Warrants Issued Amid Intense Investigation
Following the shooting, investigators gathered evidence and secured arrest warrants from the Pathum Thani Provincial Court for two suspects: 36-year-old Mr. Naphonthorn, also known as Toon P.C.N.3, and 39-year-old Mr. Sorasak, known as Dearlai. Both men faced multiple serious charges, including jointly attempting to murder a police officer, attempting to murder an officer’s assistant, and resisting arrest. Additional charges include illegal possession and use of firearms, unauthorised possession of ammunition, carrying firearms in public without justifiable cause, and discharging a firearm in a populated area without necessity.
The Pathum Thani Provincial Police warned that the charges reflected the gravity of the offences, which endangered both officers and the public. Police also called on the suspects to surrender peacefully, as the intense manhunt continued throughout the day.
Suspects Contact Police to Surrender
In a positive development, both Mr. Naphonthorn and Mr. Sorasak contacted the authorities to arrange their surrender. They agreed to turn themselves in at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station, signalling the end of a tense manhunt that had put residents on edge. The police expressed relief at the suspects’ decision to surrender, which helped avoid further confrontation.
The incident underscores the escalating risks faced by law enforcement officers conducting undercover operations targeting illegal activities, including the sale of e-cigarettes, which remain prohibited under Thai law. Police officials urged the public to report suspicious activities involving firearms or illicit trade and reiterated their commitment to tackling crimes that threaten community safety.
The suspects are expected to face swift legal proceedings, with authorities promising a thorough investigation to determine all circumstances surrounding the attempted murders and illegal firearm use during the bungled sting operation.