A traffic police officer in Sattahip has apologized after assaulting a 13-year-old boy, and the boy’s family has accepted the apology. The incident occurred when the officer, whose name has not been disclosed, pursued the boy for riding a motorcycle with a broken exhaust that was making loud noises.
Reports indicate that the officer struck the boy five times and threatened legal action against him. This prompted the boy’s family to file a formal complaint, leading Sattahip police to arrange a meeting where the officer expressed remorse for his actions and assured the family it would not happen again. The family, including the boy, accepted his apology. Ms. Phonlada, the boy’s mother, emphasized that there are better ways to handle such situations, like issuing a warning or contacting the boy’s parents, instead of resorting to violence.
Regarding potential disciplinary measures, Sattahip police stated that this will depend on an investigation by provincial authorities, and a decision on the officer’s punishment is still pending.
It’s important to note that in Thailand, 13 is below the legal age for operating a motorcycle, and it remains unclear whether any legal consequences will arise from this incident.
