Thai police have arrested 15 Myanmar youths for a group knife attack on three students in Chiang Mai, as announced by Deputy Police Chief General Prachut during a press conference on September 19. The suspects, ranging in age from 14 to over 30 years old, were led by 25-year-old Sai Aik Maung (aka M) in the violent assault that took place on September 16.
The incident occurred in front of a 24-hour laundromat and convenience store in Chiang Mai’s San Kamphaeng district. The attackers targeted the students’ arms, forearms, and backs with knives before fleeing the scene. Among the victims, a 14-year-old female student suffered severe injuries, including a severed wrist that required surgical reattachment, and remains in critical condition.
Chiang Mai police conducted an investigation at the crime scene on the morning of September 17 and subsequently launched a manhunt that led to the arrest of all 15 suspects. The authorities have charged the perpetrators with aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit violence involving more than five people, and weapons possession. Thai police have also announced that the suspects will face deportation after serving their sentences for these crimes.
The incident highlights an ongoing issue with violence among Myanmar youth groups in Chiang Mai, particularly those identifying themselves as the ‘Black Lotus Gang’ and ‘999 Gang,’ who have been reportedly involved in multiple cases of assault and intimidation. These violent incidents have prompted Thai authorities to increase surveillance and monitoring of Myanmar migrant youth in the area. The recent attack has raised concerns about the safety of students and other residents in Chiang Mai, leading to calls for stricter enforcement measures against gang-related activities in the city.
