The chief of police in Hat Yai explained away the incident where a chasing policeman on a motorcycle kicked out causing a fleeing rider to crash to the tarmac.
Chief Kittichai Sangkhathaworn said on a police Facebook page that the two cops on the police bike were just taking defensive measures to avoid coming off themselves.
Defending his men he said it was not a deliberate attempt to bring down the suspect.
Earlier in the day comment was rife online as Thais said that the cops had kicked out. News media concurred with this assessment.
Chief Kittichai said that the officers involved – Manot Otthon and Wisanu Jamnongnoi – had set up a legal roadblock and Ratanaphon, 21, had failed to stop when requested.
A 30 minute chase ensued in which Ratanaphon sideswiped a Ford.
He said that outside the Isuzu dealership on Petchkasem Road, Manot stuck out a boot, as the suspect weaved in front, in an effort to stay upright.
Ratanaphon came off and was treated at the scene by medics though he was only slightly injured.
It was reported that Ratanaphon settled with the Ford driver over compensation and was not going to take the matter concerning the cops any further.
No other charges were reported in respect of him not stopping for officers at the roadblock.
Interesting one. Unnecessary force, maybe but why did Ratanaphon not stop at the roadblock?
It would appear that both parties have “got away with one” here.
(Source:-Daily News)