Teenage gang’s bomb plot blown in Phuket (2025)

A teenage gang leader has been banged to rights after cops uncovered homemade bombs, a firearm, and ammo in a dramatic raid to stamp out street racing and youth violence in Phuket.

The 17 year old ringleader, known only as ‘T’, was arrested by Wichit police as part of a sweeping operation targeting underage biker gangs wreaking havoc on the streets, said Wichit Police Chief Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang.

“This operation is part of our ongoing effort to eliminate the dangers posed by illegal street racing and youth gangs.”

The bust followed an investigation into a group of young speedsters previously detained for breaking curfew and flouting traffic laws. Digging deeper, officers discovered the gang had far more sinister intentions, including homemade explosives allegedly inspired by social media, Phuket News reported.

On Friday evening, April 4, police raided several locations across Mueang Phuket District, eventually uncovering two crude bombs, a DIY firearm with ammunition, and a machete hidden in the home of one gang member.

The “Villains” gang is said to be made up of over 15 youths aged just 14 to 15, led by ‘T’, who has now been slapped with multiple charges including the illegal production and possession of explosives and firearms — weapons for which no licences can be issued.

Police later escorted the teen to his home in Koh Siray, east of Phuket Town, where further evidence was seized.

The bombs, cobbled together using gunpowder, rocks, paper, and black tape, were reportedly intended for use in violent clashes with rival gangs, raising alarm over the potential for deadly consequences, said Pol. Col. Somsak.

“The seizure of these weapons may have prevented a deadly incident.”

Earlier that same day, Wichit Police had launched a crackdown on illegal street racing, setting up checkpoints that resulted in the arrest of 17 minors and the confiscation of 10 motorbikes. Parents were hauled in and briefed under the Child Protection Act.

Pol. Col. Somsak said the crackdown is part of a broader push, led by Region 8 Police Commander Pol. Lt. Gen. Surapong Thanomchit and Phuket Provincial Police Chief Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, to clean up crime hotspots and keep communities safe.

Investigations are ongoing, with police vowing to dismantle youth gangs and wipe illegal weapons off the streets before they cause real carnage.

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