Cherng Talay police investigate charity posts showing apparent rifle

Cherng Talay police are investigating Facebook posts made under the name “Phuket Bangtao Charity” that showed a man wearing the group’s logo while holding what appeared to be a rifle and sought donations.

Police said the posts prompted concern among residents. Cherng Talay Police Chief Pol Col Ekkarat Plaiduang ordered an urgent investigation, overseen by Deputy Superintendent of Investigation Pol Lt Col Anurak Klangnarong.

A team led by Chief of Investigation Pol Maj Chanasin Prateep Na Thalang traced the man in the photographs to his home in Srisoonthorn, where officers carried out a search. Police said they did not find any firearm matching the one shown in the images and discovered no illegal items at the residence.

During questioning, the man told investigators the weapon in the photographs was a BB gun, not a real firearm. He said the images were taken in Myanmar in 2023 and not in Thailand.

He also told police that the donation appeal posted under the name “Phuket Bangtao Charity” was organised by a group of Myanmar nationals seeking financial assistance for people affected by ongoing unrest in Myanmar.

Police said officers warned the man against posting images or messages on social media that could cause public alarm or misunderstanding. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the posts and said any further action would follow legal procedures.