The operation was carried out on Mueang Chao Fa Rd at about 2am, following repeated public complaints about illegal street racing and disturbances caused by groups of youths gathering late at night.
Wichit Police Chief Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang ordered a coordinated patrol led by senior officers to target motorbike gangs and at-risk youths, particularly those under the age of 18, as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal racing and traffic violations in high-risk areas.
During the operation, officers detained 13 minors, all under 18, identified as members of a local motorbike gang known as ‘Dek Waen’. All were taken to Wichit Police Station, where their parents or legal guardians were summoned.
Police informed guardians of the legal consequences under the Child Protection Act B.E. 2546, including Sections 26(3) and 78, and recorded the youths’ details as part of an at-risk monitoring process. The minors were later released into the care of their guardians in accordance with legal procedures.
During a search at the scene, officers also detained a 15-year-old boy after discovering a homemade firearm capable of firing 12-gauge shotgun shells, along with one round of ammunition, concealed in a shoulder bag.
The teenager was taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Wichit Police Station to face charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and carrying a weapon in a public place without permission.
Pol Col Somsak said the operation had prevented a potentially serious incident, noting that police intelligence suggested the weapon was intended for use in violence against rival youth groups.
“Police will continue strict enforcement against youth gangs and illegal street racing that cause distress to the public,” he said. “Parents have been warned about their children’s behaviour, and legal action will be taken without exception.”
He added that the wider crackdown had also led to the arrest of suspected drug users during the same period, as police intensify efforts to improve public safety in Wichit and surrounding areas.