Pattaya, Thailand – A Chinese national has been taken into custody following a violent altercation that escalated into a shooting in Pattaya. Police responding to the scene also discovered a substantial quantity of illegal drugs in the victim’s car, adding a new dimension to the case.
The incident occurred late last night near a popular entertainment area in South Pattaya. According to initial reports, an argument broke out between the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Zhang Wei (name withheld pending confirmation), and another Chinese man. The dispute turned physical before Zhang allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot the victim multiple times.
Emergency services rushed the wounded man to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Witnesses reported hearing loud shouting before gunfire erupted, causing panic among bystanders.
Upon securing the scene, officers searched the victim’s vehicle and uncovered a large stash of methamphetamine pills and other illicit substances. Police suspect the altercation may have been drug-related, though investigations are ongoing.
Zhang was apprehended shortly after the shooting and is currently being held at Pattaya Police Station. Authorities are verifying his immigration status and possible connections to local criminal networks.
“This appears to be a targeted incident with possible ties to illegal drug activity,” said Pol. Col. Prawit Chorseng, deputy commander of Pattaya Police. “We are coordinating with narcotics suppression units to trace the source of these drugs.”
The case has drawn attention to foreign-linked crime in Pattaya, with authorities pledging tighter scrutiny of entertainment zones. Further updates are expected as forensic analysis and witness interviews progress.
Key Details:
- Suspect: Chinese national, 28 (name pending verification)
- Charges: Attempted murder, illegal firearm possession (drug charges pending)
- Evidence: Firearm recovered, methamphetamine seized from victim’s car
- Status: Victim hospitalized; suspect in custody, motive under investigation
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Pattaya Police Station.