A Thai social media influencer, Thanakarn Kanthee, known online as “Bank Leicester,” tragically died after drinking two bottles of whisky as part of a bet. The 21-year-old was offered 30,000 Thai baht (approximately Rs 75,228) to down the bottles during the challenge. Kanthee, who had intellectual disabilities, was known for taking on such extreme challenges, including drinking hand sanitiser and wasabi in exchange for money.
The incident occurred at a birthday party in Tha Mai district, Chanthaburi, on December 25, when Kanthee arrived around 11 pm. During the event, he was dared to drink a 350ml bottle of Regency whiskey with a cash reward of 10,000 baht per bottle. Already intoxicated, Kanthee accepted the challenge and consumed two bottles in just 20 minutes. He soon lost consciousness from alcohol poisoning and was rushed to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
An arrest
The police have arrested a man who allegedly hired Thanakarn Kanthee to take on the deadly challenge. The arrest occurred after authorities raided the suspect’s home in search of evidence potentially linking him to a gambling operation.
The suspect, Ekkachart Meephrom, also known as “Em Ekkachart,” was found with a pistol, bank passbooks, mobile phones, and SIM cards during the raid at his house in Huai Sathon, Tha Mai district, in eastern Thailand. During questioning, Ekkachart admitted to the offense and revealed that his mother, Supranee Phoonkasi, had organized the party. Under Thai law, if Ekkachart is found guilty of reckless behavior leading to death, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 baht (approximately Rs 50,152).
Netizens outrage
The death has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with users questioning the partygoers for allowing the dangerous challenge to proceed. One video captured partygoers continuing to cheer as Mr. Kanthee collapsed, leading to his death.
In the aftermath, a post by Mr. Kanthee has gone viral, in which he revealed that he took on such extreme challenges to support his family. “I am willing to be bullied and insulted to just get scraps of money from the rich people in order to provide for my family,” the post read.
