In a harrowing incident that unfolded in the dark woods of Phu Khao, a group of campers became unlikely heroes after they heard a woman’s desperate cries for help. On the evening of May 5, 2025, around 7:30 PM, a woman was reportedly lured into a dangerous situation by a man from Myanmar, who attempted to harm her. The campers, having set up their tents nearby, were alerted to her plight and swiftly intervened.
The alarming event began when the woman, seeking assistance, ran towards the campers’ vehicle, shouting for help. The man, riding a motorcycle, pursued her but fled when he saw her with the group. One of the campers promptly called the emergency hotline 191, leading to local police arriving at the scene to assist. However, by the time authorities arrived, the assailant had escaped, leaving the campers shaken but relieved that the woman was safe.
In a follow-up post on the Facebook page "Baa Travel," the campers recounted their experience, shedding light on the events that transpired. They noted that the woman had been tricked by the man, who had claimed to need help with a personal matter involving his girlfriend. This deception led her to follow him into the woods, where he attempted to assault her.
According to the campers, the woman had initially been sympathetic to the man’s plight, believing she was helping someone in distress. However, as they reached a secluded area, she sensed danger and tried to return, only to be physically attacked. "He punched her in the mouth and threatened her with a knife, warning her not to scream," one camper recalled. Despite the threat, the woman bravely shouted for help, which ultimately led to her rescue.
"I could hear her cries from quite a distance as I was setting up my tent and turning on the camp lights," one camper shared. "It was dark and raining, and she ran about 200 meters to reach us, telling us to help her. I was confused at first but quickly realized the gravity of the situation. We needed to act fast." The campers decided to keep the woman safe while they contacted the police, fearing for their own safety as well.
The police later confirmed that they had apprehended the suspect, who had been on the run since the incident. The quick actions of the campers and their decision to alert the authorities played a crucial role in ensuring the woman's safety and bringing the assailant to justice.
In a separate but equally notable incident, the Phu Khao Police Station recently gained attention for their amusing yet heartwarming response to a call for help regarding a reptile in a bathroom. A post on their Facebook page detailed how the police, led by Officer Sakda, responded to a request to capture a gecko in a home in the Tong Somo area. The post humorously stated, "This way is fine," showcasing the police's commitment to serving the community in all matters, big or small.
The post quickly went viral, drawing a flurry of comments from amused locals. Many praised the police for their willingness to assist with even the most trivial of issues, with one commenter joking, "Can they help with my gecko problem too?" The police responded affirmatively, further endearing themselves to the community.
These incidents highlight the ongoing efforts of local authorities to engage with the public and address their concerns, whether they involve serious safety issues or lighthearted requests. Pol. Col. Phumiphat Nawatratrakul, the commander of the Lamphun Provincial Police Station, emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust and providing effective services. "We are committed to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of our citizens," he stated, urging anyone in need of assistance to reach out to their local police station or the emergency numbers 1599 and 191, available 24/7.
In light of ongoing issues surrounding illegal lending practices that have affected many citizens, the Lamphun Provincial Police have intensified efforts to combat this problem. They are working closely with the Ministry of the Interior and other relevant agencies to address both legal and illegal debt issues, aiming to provide relief to those in financial distress.
As part of a national campaign, the police reported that in 2024, they successfully arrested 55 individuals involved in illegal lending, and have already made 25 arrests in 2025. "We will continue to crack down on illegal lending networks and ensure that justice is served promptly," emphasized Pol. Col. Nawatratrakul.
Community members are encouraged to seek help through legitimate financial institutions to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous lenders. The police are steadfast in their mission to protect citizens and improve their quality of life, assuring the public that their safety remains a top priority.
These recent events in Phu Khao serve as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the vital role that both law enforcement and civilians play in ensuring public safety. Whether responding to cries for help in the woods or capturing a harmless gecko in a bathroom, the commitment to protecting and serving the community remains unwavering.
