Recent police arrests have renewed public concern over rising youth violence and reckless motorcycle activity in Vientiane Capital.
On 17 June, Sisattanak district police arrested seven teenagers aged between 15 and 17 accused of carrying out 4 attacks along Mekong riverside roads, Patuxay, and That Khao areas using knives, weapons, and broken glass bottles.
Authorities said the group, known as “10K,” regularly gathered in motorcycle convoys at night and had been involved in several violent incidents throughout May, leaving three people injured.
“People No Longer Feel Safe Running There”
One of the runners who shared the post complaining about the youth’s behavior, and regularly exercises around Thatluang Lake Special Economic Zone (SEZ), requested anonymity over safety concerns.
He told the Laotian Times that large groups of teenagers continue gathering almost every evening around the area, racing motorcycles, performing stunts, revving an engine, and intimidating people using the park.
“Every evening there are groups of 5 to 20 people racing motorcycles, popping a wheelie, and speeding around the lake,” he said.
“Sometimes there are up to 40 to 50 youths gathered in the area. People who come to run already know about it, but many avoid getting involved because it is not worth the risk.”
He said the situation had persisted for almost a year and had gradually worsened in recent months. Many runners have already relocated to the Thatluang ground area.
“Before, most runners exercised around the lake. Now many have moved because they no longer feel safe,” he said.
Motorcycles have repeatedly come dangerously close to pedestrians.
“When they were racing, my wife almost got hit before. Many runners have experienced close calls.”
The runner also described an incident in which he attempted to film the teenagers before several riders confronted him.
“They turned back and drove directly toward me asking why I was filming them in an intimidating manner. After that, I decided it was better not to get involved.”
He said police occasionally arrive at the area, but the groups scatter and return once officers leave. Despite growing frustration, many residents continue exercising there while avoiding confrontation out of fear of retaliation.
“Many people are tired of it. Some choose to leave completely. Others just try to protect themselves and continue exercising carefully,” he said, adding that residents hope authorities will act to restore safety at public spaces.
“If authorities help improve safety, places like Thatluang lake could become enjoyable public spaces again for everyone.”
Wider Crackdowns on Youth Gangs
The 10 K arrests are part of a broader pattern of gang-related incidents police are now investigating across the capital.
On 11 June, police arrested seven teenage suspects linked to another gang known as “Soi Jone,” literally translated to “Thieves’ Alley,” following an armed robbery in Sikhottabong district that left one victim injured and his motorcycle stolen.
Suspects said the gang had around 200 members.
State media reported that similarly gathered at night in motorcycle convoys around Patuxay and riverside areas, using knives, weapons, and imitation firearms during robberies targeting pedestrians and motorists.
Police said investigation into both groups remain ongoing as officers continue searching for additional suspects connected to the incidents.
