Bangkok is considered by many a lovely place to visit. However, no one was expecting the outbreak of violence when someone started shooting in Siam Paragon, a local shopping mall. To make matters worse, the Crown Prince of Johor and his family had been in the area when it happened.
Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ), Tunku Ismail Idris ibni Sultan Ibrahim had the scare of his life when gunshots and screaming were heard from Siam Paragon, the mall right next to their hotel. The Crown Prince of Johor later described it as “the worst experience I’ve ever gone through“.
The incident took place yesterday (3rd October) during the late afternoon when gunfire was reportedly heard at Siam Paragon, one of Bangkok’s popular tourist destinations. TMJ recounted that he and his family only knew something was wrong when people started shouting and running into the hotel from the mall.
“It was loud and there was a lot of screaming,” he shared via an Instagram Story. “We were all sitting at the hotel lobby at that time.” TMJ’s first priority had been his family, and they got everyone to partial safety by fleeing to the basement. However, the Crown Prince of Johor admitted they had been worried as they had little to no information about the situation.
“I still have images of me telling my kids, “everything is going to be okay. Babah and Mama are here” and telling them to get down while waiting for the car,” he stated. “My wife hugged all our kids, staying low and trying to calm them because they were terrified and were crying.” At that time TMJ and his security team had formed a human shield to protect his family at all costs.
While TMJ was prioritising getting a car to transport his family and team away from the area, they also needed a secure place to go to. “I told them to get us to the Malaysian embassy, and the driver told us Singapore embassy was closer and that was when I contacted the Singapore Consul General in Johor,” TMJ said. Thankfully, the Singapore Embassy were quick to offer their shelter.
“Now we’re here safe in the Embassy. I called the Malaysian PM and our Defence Minister to inform them (of) what was happening. The Malaysian Ambassador is also with us. Once all is secure, we will go to the airport and fly back to Johor,” TMJ revealed during his update last night.
“Sadly, I missed the JDT game but I’m glad my family and our team are safe. This is the worst experience I’ve ever gone through,” he stated. TMJ also made sure to thank his security team and friends from Singapore and Malaysia. “I will forever be grateful to all of you,” he ended.
Reports have since confirmed that two people were killed in the Siam Paragon shooting, both women from China and Myanmar respectively, while five others were injured. National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol also confirmed that the shooter is in their custody, allegedly after he had surrendered his handgun.
The suspect, a 14-year-old boy, reportedly attended a private school close to Siam Paragon and had a history of being treated for a mental health condition. However, police claim he had stopped taking his medication. “He said it was like there was another him telling him who to shoot,” Police Chief Sukvimol stated. Bullets and target practice paper were also discovered at the suspect’s home.
Malaysia’s ambassador to Thailand, Datuk Jojie Samuel announced that the embassy is closely monitoring the situation. “Malaysians affected by the incident may seek assistance by contacting the embassy,” he said to Bernama. However, reportedly, no Malaysians were involved in the Siam Paragon shooting.
Many have noted that the shooting occurred just a few days before 6th October, which marks the date of the massacre at a nursery killing 36 which happened last year. Although gun violence is allegedly not uncommon in Thailand, mass shootings are rare.
The Crown Prince of Johor and his family reportedly touched down in Johor earlier this morning (4th October). Like many, we are grateful they are safe. As for those who knew the victims, we pray they will find peace in their passing. We also sincerely hope the suspect will get the help he needs.
Sources: Twitter, Malay Mail, Channel News Asia, Bernama
