Phuket police detain seven youths over street racing and fireworks
Wichit police detained seven youths and prosecuted their parents after alleged street racing and fireworks displays made for social-media content.
Phuket police have detained seven people under 18 and prosecuted their seven parents over alleged street racing and fireworks displays filmed for social-media content, authorities said on 11 October 2026.
The operation targeted a group identified by police as the “Bang Khonthi gang” in Wichit. Officers seized eight motorcycles and 50 fireworks and firecrackers, and created profiles for 16 other youths considered at risk, according to police.
Phuket Provincial Police commander Pol Maj Gen Surachai Suk-sai ordered Wichit police to identify and take action against those involved after residents complained about racing on public roads and loud fireworks, particularly near a hospital, police said.
Police said the youths face charges including jointly racing on a public road, driving without regard for the safety or inconvenience of others, causing a public nuisance, and making excessive noise that caused alarm or disturbance. Authorities will also seek the confiscation of the motorcycles and other items allegedly used in the offences.
The parents are being prosecuted under Thailand’s Child Protection Act, police said.
Wichit police chief Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang said the operation was the first against the group. Officers are continuing to investigate two other alleged gangs, named by police as “Dragon Heart” and “Sap Chang”.
