BANGKOK, Thailand – A Chinese national was detained at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thursday after allegedly destroying automated passport screening gates and attempting to assault police officers, resulting in damages estimated at nearly half a million baht.
The incident occurred at Departure Immigration Zone 2 when Mr. Zheng Liwei, a passenger scheduled to fly with Spring Airlines, reportedly used force to damage two automated passport scanners before bypassing the checkpoint without authorization. According to Pol. Capt. Saranwit Kaewkhoto of the Suvarnabhumi Immigration Office, the suspect then shouted profanities in Chinese and attempted to physically attack officers on duty. The confrontation ended when the suspect’s wife intervened and restrained him.
The Immigration Bureau reported that the two automated gates sustained severe damage, with an initial repair estimate of 481,500 baht, excluding VAT. Authorities are now seeking to prosecute the suspect for insulting officials on duty and destruction of government property. Suvarnabhumi Airport Police confirmed they are currently reviewing evidence and proceeding with legal action to the fullest extent of the law. (TNA)
