Pattaya: A Chinese man remains stressed after being remanded in custody at Pattaya Immigration Office, while an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team collects evidence and authorities urgently search for two navy personnel implicated in the illegal sale of Chinese firearms.
According to Thai News Agency, the case revolves around 31-year-old Mingchen Shan, a Chinese national arrested following a car accident under the jurisdiction of Na Chom Thian Police Station. During a vehicle search, police discovered a firearm and magazine, prompting a subsequent search of Shan's residence in Soi Huai Yai. The search uncovered a military-grade firearm, high-explosive devices, anti-personnel explosives, ten hand grenades, explosive components, and a large quantity of fuel. These items were seized as evidence, and Shan was taken into custody for legal proceedings.
Last night, police detained Mingchen Shan at Na Chom Thian Police Station for continued questioning before transferring him to Pattaya Immigration Office. Shan appeared visibly fatigued and required constant medication.
This morning, the Explosives Information Center of the Forensic Science Division, Royal Thai Police, arrived at Na Chom Thian Police Station to collect detailed evidence, specifically the firearms, ammunition, and explosives discovered.
The task force has deployed personnel to the Sattahip area to track down two more military officers involved in the gun sales. This follows the arrest of Mr. Kachen, a shooting range instructor in Pattaya; Petty Officer 1st Class Methee from the Royal Thai Navy; and Mr. Jamlong, 51, who delivered the guns to the Chinese national. Two more accomplices, Sergeant Haep and Sergeant Boy, are currently being sought for questioning.
In terms of the gun purchase timeline, Mr. Kachen contacted Petty Officer 1st Class Methee regarding guns for sale for a Chinese national. Methee then reached out to Sergeant Haeb to facilitate the purchase, who further coordinated with Sergeant Boy for gun delivery. Mr. Jamlong provided his bank account details for the transaction.
In a related case at Sai Mai Police Station, a high-ranking officer verified the identity of a deputy inspector who owned one of the firearms seized from Mingchen Shan. The officer revealed that the deputy inspector admitted to purchasing the firearm as a personal weapon through the police welfare program and claimed it was pawned but was unaware of how it ended up with Shan.
The deputy inspector continues his duties at Sai Mai Police Station without special orders against him, though he must provide information to the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Command's fact-finding committee.
The atmosphere at Sai Mai Police Station was quiet due to a public holiday, and the officer on duty confirmed the inspector was not on duty today.