Police Hunt for Youth Gang After 14-Year-Old Girl Slashed
Police in Chiang Mai have launched a manhunt for a violent teenage gang after three young people were brutally attacked with machetes outside a 7-Eleven convenience store.
The assault left a 14-year-old girl with a deep cut on her left wrist. She received first aid at the scene before being rushed to a nearby hospital. Two other victims, an 18-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man, suffered stab wounds to the back. Both received emergency medical treatment from rescue workers.
According to witnesses, a group of five to eight teens suddenly appeared, shouting and brandishing machetes. “Everything happened so quickly,” said Somchai, a local vendor. “They rushed at the kids without warning, waving their weapons. The victims didn’t even have time to run.”
The attackers fled before police arrived, highlighting growing concerns over violent youth gangs in Chiang Mai. Authorities say the gangs often carry knives, machetes, and homemade explosives known as “ping pong bombs,” creating chaos and fear for both residents and visitors.
Police are now reviewing CCTV footage from the area in hopes of identifying those responsible. Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchai Pongwiwatchai, said strong images from multiple cameras show clear views of the suspects. “We expect to make arrests soon and press serious charges,” he told reporters.
Charges could include assault with a deadly weapon and attempted murder, depending on the evidence gathered.
This incident is the latest in a troubling series of violent attacks linked to teen gangs in Chiang Mai. Earlier this year, a man was chased and fatally slashed with samurai swords in a similarly unprovoked assault.
Residents have expressed growing unease as police work to curb the escalating violence. Authorities vowed to step up patrols and hold those responsible fully accountable.
