National —
On November 21st, 2024, a bomb threat hoax at Don Mueang Airport caused a major disruption when a foreign man phoned the airport’s help desk, claiming a flight to Hat Yai was carrying a bomb.
Security protocols were immediately activated, halting the flight and evacuating 162 passengers. After a thorough investigation, no suspicious items were found, and the emergency was called off by 7:30 PM, though the incident severely affected flight operations.
On November 22nd, Thai authorities identified the caller as Mr. Ho Wai Chong, a Singaporean passport holder who had overstayed his visa by 28 days. Immigration officials tracked him within the airport and arrested him that evening.
The suspect reportedly confessed, citing family-related stress as his reason for making the call.
He faces charges under the Aviation Offenses Act, which carries penalties of 5-15 years in prison or fines between 200,000 and 600,000 baht. Additional charges for overstaying and civil lawsuits from the airport, airline, and passengers may also follow.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Choengron Rimpadee, the Immigration Bureau Spokesperson, confirmed that the suspect has no prior criminal record but will be blacklisted from re-entering Thailand after serving his sentence.
Thai authorities warned against such pranks, emphasizing the severe criminal and financial consequences.
