Man fires shots at Thai politician’s home, arrested

2026-02-10 - 07:26

SAMUT PRAKAN — 10 February 2026, A 48-year-old man was arrested after allegedly forcing his way into the home of a prominent local politician in Samut Prakan province and firing four shots into the air before fleeing, police said. Police received the report at 10:00 according to Pol. Col. Chakrit Srirojanagoon, superintendent of Muang Samut Prakan police station. The incident occurred at the residence of Chonsawat Asavahame on Thai Ban Road in Pak Nam subdistrict, Muang district. Officers were told the suspect escaped before police arrived, driving a white Toyota Yaris with Bangkok registration plates. Police reviewed CCTV footage along the escape route and later detained the suspect at a house in Pruksa 74 housing estate in Muang district, deploying more than 20 officers to secure the arrest. A search of the house uncovered two blank-firing guns, one homemade .38-calibre firearm with ammunition, and a quantity of crystal methamphetamine. The suspect was identified as Phorathep Damrongkittikul, 48. Police later took the suspect back to the scene to re-enact the incident. During the procedure, he became aggressive and resisted officers, prompting police to use a stun gun and pepper spray to subdue him. Investigators said the man gave incoherent statements, appeared intoxicated by drugs and claimed to be possessed by a deity. The house caretaker, Weerapoj Wimolchayakorn, 49, told police the suspect had driven into the property after telling security guards he had been hired by “Ae Chonsawat” to dig soil. He parked inside, paid respects to a statue of Sun Wukong in the car park and walked further into the compound. When challenged for trespassing on private property, the suspect allegedly drew a gun and fired four shots into the air before the weapon jammed. The caretaker said he managed to rush in and seize the gun, but the suspect then pulled out another firearm and threatened him. The caretaker fled, and the suspect drove away. Police were then notified. Pol. Col. Chakrit said evidence and vehicle registration records led to the arrest, with firearms and drugs seized. The suspect remains in custody as police continue questioning and prepare charges under relevant laws.