Kathmandu: Apinya Pratitthong, a Thai national women’s volleyball player currently participating in a professional league in Nepal, has expressed a strong desire to return to Thailand following violent protests in the country. Apinya, along with four other Thai players, faced a harrowing situation as the protests turned aggressive.

According to Thai News Agency, five Thai female volleyball players are in Nepal, playing for the Lalitpur Queens and Catmandu Spikers teams. Among them, “Um” Apinya Pratitthong and “Beam” Kanchana Srisaikaew had to evacuate quickly after protesters set fire to their hotel. Apinya took to Facebook, sharing her distress and pleading for assistance to return home, as she managed to escape with only her life and left her belongings behind.

Despite the intense situation, Apinya later posted a video update stating that the situation has improved, with soldiers managing to regain control. However, her desire to return home remains unchanged.

Meanwhile, Mr. Somporn Usibangyang, president of the Volleyball Association of Thailand, confirmed that while he has not directly communicated with the athletes, he has been in touch with their coach. He assured that all five players are safe but noted that detailed information is still pending. He is working on coordinating efforts with the club and the Thai embassy to ensure the athletes’ safety and possible return.