PHAYAO – Residents in Phayao city have raised complaints after a group of young motorcyclists gathered late at night to race their bikes along Phaholyothin Road, especially near the Tawian market, where people were still out and businesses were open, causing serious fear for locals and those passing by.
CCTV footage from the area recorded a disturbing scene. Some of the group chased each other down the street with knives, right in the middle of traffic. This left witnesses shaken and worried about their safety.
As if the noise and aggressive riding were not enough, some in the group set off and threw ping pong bombs onto the road. The explosions were loud and startled residents, who had become increasingly anxious about the danger.
People living nearby said this kind of behaviour has happened before, mostly at night when most want peace and quiet. The presence of weapons and homemade bombs has made the situation much more dangerous for everyone.
Locals have already reported the incidents to Phayao City police. They are urging officers to act quickly and strictly, calling for real action to restore safety and calm in the area.
Northern Thailand has witnessed a troubling increase in youth gang activity in recent years, particularly in urban areas like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, as well as in vocational and technical colleges.
These gangs, often composed of teenagers and young adults from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, engage in violent crimes, including shootings, stabbings, and drug-related offences.
The rise in such activities has alarmed communities and posed significant challenges for law enforcement. This article explores the factors contributing to the surge in youth gangs and the measures Thai police are taking to address the issue.
The surge in youth gang activity in Northern Thailand is a multifaceted problem rooted in socio-economic disparities, easy access to weapons, and systemic failures in education and family structures.
While the Royal Thai Police have taken steps like arrests, database creation, and community collaboration, they face challenges from legal leniency and societal issues that require broader reforms.
Addressing the root causes—poverty, alienation, and lack of opportunities—will be crucial to curbing this growing threat and ensuring safer communities across Thailand.
