Sisaket: Over eight tense hours unfolded as a drug dealer, armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, threatened to shoot police officers in a dramatic standoff in Sisaket Province. The standoff, involving the 238 Task Force and local authorities, concluded with the suspect’s surrender.

According to Thai News Agency, the incident began when 35-year-old Wirasak, who has a history of drug trafficking and weapons possession, sought refuge in a house in Nong Kung Subdistrict, Non Khun District. Pursued by police acting on an arrest warrant from the Surin Provincial Court, Wirasak brandished the assault rifle, threatening officers and retreating into the house. His erratic behavior was reportedly fueled by methamphetamine use.

Authorities, including police, military, and local officials, secured the area, attempting negotiations through his family to convince Wirasak to surrender. Despite their efforts, Wirasak remained in an agitated state, holding the weapon for over eight hours before finally surrendering due to exhaustion.

Upon searching the premises, police discovered an AK-47 with ammunition and methamphetamine pills. Wirasak admitted to consuming the drugs, leading to his hallucinatory and aggressive behavior. He was subsequently arrested and charged with illegal possession of firearms and narcotics.

Nearby residents provided CCTV evidence of Wirasak causing disturbances, including firing a gun into the air, which led to widespread panic and complaints from the community, ultimately contributing to his arrest.