CHIANG MAI – Police in Chiang Mai are stepping up charges against a Shan youth Gang following a brutal assault that 14-year-old girl with a severed wrist and two others injured. Officers have already arrested 15 gang members connected to the attack, but the gang’s leader is still on the lam.
The incident took place in a laundromat in Chiang Mai’s city centre. According to police, a youth gang of more than 20 teens of the Shan ethnic group for Myanmar, armed with large knives and a samurai sword, rode motorbikes to the scene. Inside, they attacked local youths.
When officers arrived, they found three teenagers with serious injuries. Sarun (surname withheld), 17, suffered a deep cut to his back. Natccha (surname withheld), 14, was left with her right hand severed. Kongtawee (surname withheld), also 14, had injuries to both hands.
Witnesses told investigators the victims had been waiting outside a convenience store before they were chased into the laundromat by the armed gang. One attacker followed them inside and used a sword to strike, then the group fled.
Police collected evidence and continued their search for those involved. Early on September 17, officers detained four suspects and checked their phones, discovering footage showing the large group of teens on motorbikes heading toward the crime scene. Some of these suspects admitted to being present but denied carrying out the attack.
With more investigation, police tracked down 11 additional suspects, bringing the number of arrests to 15. Included in those arrested was Sai Aik Maung, 24, a Myanmar national, who police say was one of the attackers brandishing a sword.
The Chiang Mai Provincial Court has since issued an arrest warrant for Sai Lin, a 24-year-old believed to be the ringleader. He remains at large as police continue their search.
Police Major General Kritthaphon Yeesakorn of Provincial Police Region 5 said offenders originally faced charges of aggravated assault, gathering in a group of five or more to commit violence, and carrying weapons in public without a valid reason.
Given the severity of the injuries, prosecutors now plan to pursue attempted murder charges as well. The investigation remains active as officers work to locate the final suspect and build a solid case against everyone involved.
Northern Thailand has seen a growing problem with violent incidents involving Shan youth gangs, especially in border areas like Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. These gangs often consist of young Shan migrants from Myanmar who have been tied to an increase in street crime, such as fights, robberies, and clashes with rival groups.
Many say that tough economic conditions, poor social ties, and few chances for education or decent work push these young people towards gang life. Officials struggle to keep communities safe while facing the complicated issues that come with cross-border migration.
Community leaders have called for better support, asking for more social programmes to help at-risk youth and reduce the violence.
