The immigration office in Phuket canceled the visas of two New Zealanders, who reportedly attacked a traffic police officer in Chalong district of Phuket and took his service pistol last Saturday.
The event was recorded by CCTV at the location, and a video clip was shared on social media.
Meanwhile, the Phuket provincial administration has informed the New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok about the behavior of the two suspects and has asked for cooperation from consular offices of other countries by advising their citizens visiting Thailand to follow the country’s laws.
Since last October, over 400 cases in Phuket have led to the revocation of 95 visas, involving nationals from China, Myanmar, Russia, Australia, Morocco, and the UK. Their alleged crimes include theft, working without permits, drug law violations, obstructing police, and attempted murder.
The two New Zealanders are facing several charges, such as driving without a license, resisting arrest, assault, attempting to bribe a police officer, and theft. They are scheduled to appear in the Phuket provincial court today to have their detention prolonged.
Chalong district police have stated that they will contest their bail requests, and mentioned that, even if the court grants them bail, immigration police will still arrest them after their visas are canceled.
