Khlong Thom: “Toon” Hirunthap, a veteran actor, reported being assaulted by a teenager while shopping in the Khlong Thom area. The incident led to a complaint being filed at Police Station Plabplachai 1, where the teenager involved claimed self-defense.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Toon Hirunthap, also known as Mr. Saphatchanon, aged 69, approached the investigation officer at Plabplachai Police Station 1 to report the attack by two teenagers. The assault occurred around 3:00 p.m. while he was shopping in an alley near Khlong Thom Plaza, resulting in injuries.

Mr. Toon recounted that the altercation began when he and his family were buying lights in the Khlong Thom area. He was recognized by passersby, but a teenager made an inappropriate remark, questioning his celebrity status. Mr. Toon advised the teenager to show respect to elders, which sparked an argument. The teenager then punched Mr. Toon in his right eye socket, which is blind, preventing him from seeing the attack. Police intervened to stop the altercation, but the teenager remained dissatisfied and was taken to Plabplachai Police Station along with Mr. Toon, who filed a complaint.

This incident marks the first time Mr. Toon has been attacked and injured during his years as an actor. He expressed his dismay at the lack of respect shown by today’s youth and affirmed his intention to pursue legal action to set a precedent.

The alleged assailants were identified as Mr. M, aged 17, and Mr. Chat, aged 19. Mr. M stated that he and Mr. Chat, an electrical appliance salesman, were working in a nearby shop when the altercation occurred. Mr. M claimed that when asked about Mr. Toon’s identity, he replied that he did not recognize him. This led to a confrontation initiated by Mr. Toon, who warned him about speaking respectfully. Mr. M alleged that Mr. Toon grabbed his arm twice, leading to the physical altercation where he punched the actor three times. Mr. M insisted that it was not a group attack, as Mr. Chat merely tried to intervene. He expressed a desire for the matter to be resolved so he could continue working, asserting that he acted in self-defense after being provoked by Mr. Toon.

Investigators at Plabplachai Police Station 1 have questioned both parties and referred them for medical examinations. Once the results are available, further questioning will take place to ascertain the facts before deciding on any potential charges.