Deadly ₹75,000 bet claims Thai influencer’s life after whisky drinking stunt

Bangkok (The Uttam Hindu): A Thai social media influencer, Thanakarn Kanthee, known online as "Bank Leicester," tragically passed away after drinking two bottles of whisky as part of a dangerous bet. The 21-year-old, who had intellectual disabilities, was offered 30,000 Thai baht (approximately Rs 75,228) to complete the challenge. He had previously taken on similar challenges, including consuming hand sanitizer and wasabi, in exchange for money.

The incident occurred on December 25 during a birthday party in Tha Mai district of Chanthaburi, where Mr. Kanthee arrived around 11 pm. During the party, he was dared to drink two 350ml bottles of Regency whisky, with a cash reward of 10,000 baht for each bottle. Already intoxicated, Mr. Kanthee accepted the challenge and consumed both bottles in just 20 minutes. However, he soon lost consciousness due to alcohol poisoning and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Following the incident, police arrested a man identified as Ekkachart Meephrom, also known as "Em Ekkachart," who had hired Mr. Kanthee to take on the challenge. The authorities raided his home in Huai Sathon, Tha Mai district, recovering a pistol, bank passbooks, mobile phones, and SIM cards. During questioning, Mr. Ekkachart admitted to his involvement and revealed that his mother, Supranee Phoonkasi, had organized the party.

According to Thai law, Mr. Ekkachart could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 baht (approximately Rs 50,152) if found guilty of reckless behavior causing death. The incident has caused an uproar on social media, with users expressing outrage over the actions of the partygoers, some of whom were seen cheering as Mr. Kanthee collapsed. A viral post from Mr. Kanthee revealed that he took on these dangerous challenges to earn money for his family. "I am willing to be bullied and insulted just to get scraps of money from rich people to provide for my family," his post read.