PATHUM THANI — Two Thai men violently attacked a 63-year-old employee at a drug rehabilitation clinic in Pathum Thani on Wednesday, June 18, after being denied access to prescription medication, which they later stole.
According to a report by the Jmoi V+ Facebook page, the incident occurred at the Princess Mother National Institute for Drug Abuse Treatment (PMNIDAT) in the Rangsit area. The men had requested alprazolam, a medication used for anxiety and panic disorders. When the staff member refused to dispense the drug without a valid doctor’s prescription, tensions escalated.
One of the suspects, identified as Tle, allegedly pulled a gun to threaten the staffer. Both then physically attacked the man. CCTV footage captured the scene, showing the victim—later identified only as Sanong—trying to escape, only to be caught and nearly strangled by one assailant.
While one attacker chased Sanong, the second, identified as Chain, reportedly went into the medical storage room, grabbed the desired medication, placed it in a plastic bag, and fled.
Local residents helped Sanong, who sustained a head injury requiring eight stitches, and brought him to safety. He later filed a report with Chulalongkorn Pratunam Provincial Police Station.
Authorities tracked down and apprehended Tle (25) and Chain shortly after. During interrogation, Tle confessed, claiming he was desperate for the medication, as he experienced disorientation and insomnia without it.
He told police he initially tried to purchase the medication alone, but was denied for lacking ID. He then returned with Chain and attempted to use his friend’s ID—but again, was refused, since Chain was not a registered patient. Frustrated, he admitted to attacking the worker in anger.
The public has voiced skepticism over Tle’s explanation, noting that the suspects seemed prepared—bringing a weapon and a companion—indicating possible premeditation.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and police say further investigation and questioning are underway.
