Forensic technicians meticulously surveyed the Siam Paragon shopping centre in Bangkok after a horrifying rampage on October 3 last year, orchestrated by a teenage boy.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has highlighted a severe breach of human rights by the police officers who released sensitive photos and videos of the 14-year-old who tragically took three lives during the incident. NHRC commissioner Wasan Paileeklee remarked on Friday that these issues were brought to the commission’s attention in November by the Union for Civil Liberty, concerned about the dissemination of the young offender’s images and video clips on social media platforms.
Commissioner Paileeklee elaborated that under the Thai constitution, the Child Protection Act of 2003, and the Juvenile and Family Court and Procedure Act of 2010, children are afforded substantial protections. These protections are further reinforced by international agreements like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The NHRC delved into the matter, scrutinizing the actions to determine if they transgressed legal and human rights principles. Their findings revealed that the police failed to prevent third parties from capturing and disseminating images and videos of the crime scene, showing not just the minor but also his identification card. Such actions infringe on the privacy, reputation, and rights of the young individual and his family.
This tragic incident resulted in three fatalities: two individuals lost their lives at the scene, while another succumbed to their injuries later in hospital. The gun used in this dreadful act was purchased as a blank gun online and subsequently modified.
Initial interactions with the young offender indicated signs of mental health issues. Consequently, doctors diagnosed him with a mental illness that necessitated immediate medical attention, leading to his admission to a psychiatric hospital.
Complaints were also raised about the procedural conduct of the police, specifically regarding the detention and interrogation of the boy without the presence of psychologists or social workers. Although Mr. Paileeklee acknowledged that the police might have been legally driven to take such actions to ensure public safety, the NHRC criticized the police for their lack of caution in managing the crime scene. Such oversight was deemed a violation of the child’s rights.
This week, the NHRC has called upon the Royal Thai Police to thoroughly examine the facts surrounding this case to address the highlighted concerns.
Releasing sensitive photos and videos is absolutely inexcusable. It’s a massive violation of privacy, especially for a minor!
But what about the victims’ rights? Shouldn’t their families have the same right to know every detail?
The victims’ families can still know the details without the general public having access to them. Publicly releasing such media only sensationalizes the tragedy.
Exactly, Emily! Sensationalizing crime scenes does more harm than good, especially with mental illness involved.
I agree, Emily. The police must uphold the laws protecting minors, and disseminating those images was irresponsible.
These laws are in place for a reason. Police should have psychologists present during interrogations!
Totally! Especially when dealing with someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness. It’s fundamental human rights.
Yet, in the heat of the moment, can we really expect police to dot all the i’s and cross all the t’s? They were dealing with a crisis.
Thai_Patriot, I get that. But there’s a reason why there are protocols. Lives and rights are at stake.
In cases like this, perhaps stricter regulations are needed for online gun sales. It’s too easy for minors to modify weapons.
That’s a solid point. Online sales are a gateway for illegal modifications that bypass regulations.
Regulations only go so far. It’s about education and awareness too. Kids need to be taught the consequences of these actions.
I think both the police and society are responsible here. Why didn’t anyone notice his mental health issues earlier?
Mental health services are often underfunded and overlooked. This tragedy highlights the gaps in our systems.
Liam, it’s not just about funding. People need to be more vigilant and proactive in seeking help for at-risk individuals.
Both points are critical. We need systemic change to better address mental health issues promptly.
While oversight is crucial, let’s not forget the officers were trying to ensure everyone’s safety under extreme pressure.
True, Dave. But procedures are in place to safeguard everyone’s rights, including the young boy’s.
Sophie R., balancing rights and safety is always challenging, but it’s a balance we must strive for.
This is a loss for everyone involved. More needs to be done to prevent such tragedies from ever happening again.
Absolutely, Henry. Preventative measures, mental health support, and law enforcement training are all necessary steps.
Exactly, Rebecca. It’s about solving the root issues, not just treating the symptoms.
Purchasing and modifying guns online is a massive problem. Stricter control is needed to prevent such incidents.
NHRC did the right thing by calling out the police. Human rights must be protected at all costs.
It’s horrifying that such young individuals are involved in violent crimes. What are we teaching our kids?
True, Ravi. There’s definitely a need for better parental guidance and societal responsibility.
The police made mistakes, sure, but they were trying to protect the public. The blame can’t rest entirely on them.
But their mistakes had serious consequences for a minor already diagnosed with mental health issues.
Lena, you’re right. Accountability and training need to be part of the discussion.
The mental health aspect of this case is so critical. We need more support systems in place.
Protecting the rights of offenders, especially minors, is necessary, but we must also ensure justice for victims’ families.
Public safety was an immediate concern, but that doesn’t excuse the mismanagement of the offender’s rights.
Exactly. We must hold authorities accountable to ensure such violations don’t happen again.
Couldn’t agree more, Lucas. Accountability is crucial for trust in law enforcement.