Public transport operators in Phuket are considering implementing tighter security measures in response to the recent shooting incident on a bus on February 10.
Two passengers were injured after being shot on the bus, which was travelling from Phuket to Phatthalung. The perpetrator, a 25 year old man from Krabi named Nawin Chuaykleang, who was also a former army conscript, apparently killed himself after police decided to storm the bus after four hours of negotiation with police and the man’s family.
Both victims from the attack are reported to be in stable condition. It’s reported that the attacker was struggling with a mental health issue, according to a Phuket Express report.
The incident happened on Thepkasattri Road, about 1 kilometre north of the bus terminal, on its way to Phattalung province. Police closed off the section of the road, for north and southbound lanes, disrupting the morning peak for up to 5 hours.
Adcha Buachan from the Phuket Land Transport Office says discussions are taking place about introducing a system to screen passengers for weapons before they are allowed to board the transportation service. However, he acknowledges there are challenges to this proposal and it may not fall under the authority of the Land Transport Office.
As a temporary solution, transport operators have been directed to record the names and phone numbers of each passenger. Adcha says that if additional security measures are to be put in place, this must be done carefully and with due consideration.
SOURCE: The Phuket Express
