SUVARNABHUMI — A potential tragedy was averted at Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi Airport when police successfully intercepted a British man attempting to jump from an elevated roadway, with crucial assistance from a Thai woman who acted as an negotiator during the tense situation.
The incident, which occurred on February 21 at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Exit Route 1 of the airport’s elevated road system, was first revealed through social media on February 23 when the “Jor Jae Jab Jorn” Facebook page shared footage of the rescue operation.
Police Colonel Jakrapong Nuchpadung, Superintendent of Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station (Airport 1), reported that authorities received an alert about a foreign man sitting and standing precariously on the outer edge of the elevated roadway. Recognizing the high-risk situation, police quickly assembled a response team including tourist police and airport patrol units.
The 30-year-old British national, identified only as Mr. Bradley, appeared to be in severe emotional distress. Police cleared the area of bystanders to reduce pressure on the situation and carefully planned their rescue approach.
A breakthrough came when a Thai woman volunteered to assist with negotiations, owing to her English language proficiency. As part of the carefully orchestrated rescue plan, she approached on foot to engage Mr. Bradley in conversation, while police in a private vehicle made what appeared to be a routine drive-by before making their move.
The rescue culminated in a swift operation where officers managed to safely restrain Mr. Bradley while he was distracted by the conversation. The successful intervention brought relief to both officials and passing motorists who had witnessed the tense situation.
Following the rescue, authorities noted that Mr. Bradley appeared disoriented and provided inconsistent responses during questioning. The British Embassy has been contacted, and family members have indicated they will arrive to assist with his care.
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