LAMPHUN — 2 June 2026, A police officer in northern Thailand took on the role of a traditional exorcist to calm a distressed woman after villagers believed she was possessed by a “Phi Ka”, a spirit from northern Thai folklore.
The incident occurred at about 19:30 on 1 June in Thung Hua Chang district of Lamphun province, where police received reports of a woman displaying erratic behaviour and appearing unable to control herself.
Villagers in the area expressed concern and believed her condition could be linked to possession by a Phi Ka, a spirit in northern Thai folklore believed to possess people and consume raw meat and uncooked food, similar to the better-known “Phi Pop” spirit.
After arriving at the scene, police led by Police Lieutenant Thanakorn Tatsanawetin, deputy inspector for prevention and suppression at Thung Hua Chang Police Station, chose to address the situation in a way that took local beliefs into account rather than dismissing villagers’ concerns.
While speaking with and reassuring the woman, Thanakorn assumed the role of a traditional spiritual practitioner in an effort to ease tensions and help her regain control.
Police said the approach proved effective, and the woman gradually regained composure and was able to control her behaviour.
She was later escorted home safely.
Thanakorn said police work sometimes involves more than enforcing the law.
“Sometimes policing is about the heart,” he said. “When people are in distress and their beliefs are part of how they understand a situation, we are ready to help ensure they feel safe and reassured.”
The incident attracted attention on Thai social media, where many users praised the officer for adapting his response to local cultural beliefs while helping to de-escalate the situation peacefully.
