TWO BROTHERS from New Zealand who tried to snatch a Phuket policeman’s pistol during a tussle after they were chased and stopped for speeding on their motorcycles face five charges, TV Channel 7 said this afternoon (Mar. 18).
After a meeting attended by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, it was announced that the two New Zealand tourists, Mr. Hamish Day, 36, and Mr. Oscar Mattson Day, 38, will be slapped with five charges from the original four adding a charge of bribing officials as well.
The initial four charges are stealing, fighting and obstructing officers while performing their duties, attacking an officer and driving without a licence.
Governor Sophon issued a statement saying he “cannot accept” inappropriate and illegal behavior.The Immigration Bureau has already revoked the visas of the two tourists and ordered strict prosecution in order not to damage the tourism atmosphere in Phuket.
Meanwhile Phuket Facebook page “Phuket Info Centre ” dug up the background of the two brothers who assaulted Pol. Lt. Somsak Noo-iad, attached to Chalong police station, and tried to snatch his pistol on Sunday finding out that they are boxers and for this reason it is not surprising they were able to lock him in a chokehold.
The parents of the two brothers, millionaire business and property owners Laurence and Katrina Day, have asked for calm and privacy in the aftermath of the high-profile incident, New Zealand Herald newspaper said.
“It’s very, very concerning,” Laurence Day told the Herald. “The family is distraught. We’re praying for a good outcome.
“Who would have ever expected this? Just a couple of kids on a tourist trip.”
Laurence Day said both men had their own families, including children, in New Zealand who were deeply concerned for their wellbeing.
“They were just on holiday. It’s very difficult. At the moment they’re okay. It’s a very trying time.” He said Hamish Day had managed to get a single text message out to his wife but they had received no other communication.
CAPTION:
Pol. Lt. Somsak Noo-iad locked in a chokehold by one of the two men from New Zealand. Photo: Thapapong Trs and shared by Amarin TV
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