Police officers at Bangkok’s Thong Lor station performed 10 squats as a public act of accountability following an incident involving a drunk colleague. The unusual disciplinary measure came after Pol Sgt Maj Montri Meedetch, under the influence of alcohol, fired a gun during an argument with a bar security guard in the early hours of Sunday.
The incident occurred at 2:55 a.m. near Soi Ekkamai 5-Thong Lor 10. Police were called to the scene where Pol Sgt Maj Montri, intoxicated and holding a firearm, had reportedly fired a shot into the air. Officers found him pointing the weapon at a bar security guard who was trying to de-escalate the situation. A blood alcohol test revealed a reading of 136 milligrams, well above the legal limit.
In response, Thong Lor station chief Pol Col Pansa Amarapitak convened a meeting of all 140 officers under his command on Tuesday. During the meeting, he reiterated proper firearm usage protocols and emphasized the need for professional behavior. As a symbolic act of collective responsibility, Pol Col Pansa led his officers in performing 10 squats together, linking arms to demonstrate unity and accountability for the station’s reputation.
Pol Sgt Maj Montri was discharged from duty on Monday and now faces multiple charges, including illegal possession and public use of a firearm, discharging a weapon in a public area, and threatening public safety.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about professional conduct within law enforcement and serves as a reminder of the standards expected of those in positions of authority.
