BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has issued a warning to the public against posting online threats that could incite panic, following an incident in Nakhon Ratchasima province where an individual threatened violence at several shopping malls. The suspect, who posted the message in a Facebook group on October 13, was swiftly apprehended by police, though the post had already caused widespread concern.
The RTP highlighted that such actions, even if meant as a joke, could violate the Computer Crime Act. Under Section 14(2), posting false information online that leads to public panic can result in up to five years in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.
During a press briefing, RTP Deputy Spokesperson Pol Maj Gen Siriwat Deephor urged people not to share or forward threatening content on social media, as this could escalate public fear. Instead, any suspicious posts should be reported directly to the police via the 191-emergency hotline or the RTP hotline at 1599, available 24 hours a day.
RTP Commissioner-General Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet expressed concern for public safety and emphasized the importance of taking such threats seriously. He assured the public that the police would continue closely monitoring the situation to ensure public order. (NNT)
