KHON KAEN, Thailand – A local reporter and member of Khon Kaen’s media network has alleged that a deputy police chief at Ban Phai Police Station assaulted him, leaving him with a serious wound requiring 12 stitches. The reporter, identified as Trithep Kiatpakorn, 42, known as “Mo Ban Phai,” was receiving treatment at Ban Phai Hospital after the alleged incident on August 7. Photos shared online showed an injury above his right eyebrow, while doctors reportedly treated the wound with 12 stitches.
Tri Thep said he had gone to Ban Phai Police Station at around 7 p.m. to prepare to attend a local official event. He said a deputy police chief whom he knew personally invited him to sit and talk at a table behind the station, where two other officers were also present. According to his account, the conversation lasted only a few minutes before the officer allegedly restrained him around the neck. The reporter said officers at the table intervened and the situation stopped temporarily. When he decided to leave, he alleged that the officer approached him again and restrained him, after which he lost consciousness.
He said he later regained awareness with two officers helping him while waiting for emergency medical assistance. He was taken to Ban Phai Hospital for treatment. The Ban Phai police chief, Pol. Col. Rakchat Rueangcharoen, reportedly visited the reporter at the hospital and ordered investigators to take an initial statement. Trithep said he plans to file a formal complaint once he is discharged from hospital.
Local reports also alleged that the same deputy police chief had previously faced disciplinary action following an incident in September 2025 involving an alleged attempt to assault a five-month-pregnant woman and the use of abusive language. The earlier incident was reportedly investigated internally and resulted in disciplinary action. The latest allegations remain subject to police investigation and the accused officer’s response.
