Thai 'ultra' leader vows no more flare lighting
A leader of a supporter group dubbed “Ultra Thailand” turned himself in to authorities on Friday but denied being involving in the lighting of flares during the second leg of the Asean Championship final at Rajamangala National Stadium on December 17.
Wearing a black shirt with grey suit and sporting sunglasses to hide his face, Prapoj Panphothong, one of 11 suspects who face arrest warrants for the incident involving his group, walked into Hua Mark Police Station without speaking to the waiting media.
He denied allegations that he was among the fans who lit flares, an act that took some of the shine off Thailand’s 2-0 win over Indonesia that saw them overturn a first-leg deficit and retain the title with a 3-2 aggregate success.
“He only admitted that he performed a cheerleading role, and said he played no part in lighting the flares," said metropolitan commissioner Sanit Mahathavorn. "The events are still under investigation.
“As I have said before, those involved in the incident are not deemed criminals. They just did something against the rules which unfortunately caused damage to the country’s image. So I would like to warn other supporter groups to stay within the lines.
“After speaking to him (Prapoj), he confirmed that he would continue cheering on the team and promised there would be no repeat of the incident one million percent. The interrogating officer will inform him about the charges."
