Wichit police arrest youth gang suspects tied to Phuket shootings

Wichit Police on Wednesday, May 6, announced arrests in a crackdown on a youth gang linked to attempted murder and multiple gun crimes in Phuket. Police said the operation, dubbed the dismantling of the “Gang of Villains,” targeted a network of teenagers blamed for repeated disturbances in the area.

Authorities arrested Wacharachai Buachin, 18, on a firearms possession charge. Seized evidence included two homemade guns, magazines, six rounds of ammunition and a box containing 24 spent .38 cartridges.

Charges expand to juvenile suspects and separate Kathu shooting

Investigators said one of the seized guns was used in the Laem Dinso shooting. Two other suspects, Yotsakorn, 17, and Napat, 15, were charged with attempted murder and carrying firearms in public.

Both were remanded to the Phuket Juvenile Court on May 6. Police also extended the investigation to a separate shooting in Kathu District, where Pipat, 15, and Anutach, 16, allegedly fired at a car and damaged it.

Police said 11 other youths aged 15 to 17 were identified as taking part in a gathering at Laem Panwa, though they were not directly tied to the shootings. Their parents will face neglect charges under the Child Protection Act, with those cases also referred to the Phuket Juvenile Court.

Forensic officers are collecting DNA samples and gunpowder residue from all suspects. Police said criminal records will be established for everyone connected to the gang and its affiliates.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/06/armed-youth-gang-linked-to-shootings-arrested-in-wichit/