Self-defence lessons through 'Tactical Line'
A video clip of a man on a motorbike snatching an old woman's purse and dragging her along for several metres, or the clip of a robber hitting a tourist on the back of her head are serving as reminders of how life in Bangkok is getting dangerous.
In response to this, a new series called “Tactical Line” was created to show Bangkokians or any Thai elsewhere how they can avoid becoming victims by teaching them self-defence tactics. The series can be watched on the Centaur Tactical Channel on YouTube.
“Tactical Line” is hosted by former national fencing champion Bancha “Tong” Shoosongdej, who manages Chulalongkorn University’s Sport Centre, and former special-operations unit officer Colonel Teeranan Nandhakwang.
Teeranan, who still serves in the Army, said it is not difficult to learn self-defence skills and that the programme show how people can apply these skills to their daily life.
The first episode focuses on rules people should strictly stick by when using a gun. The Army officer said that there are four rules people should adhere to when holding a gun to prevent accidents. They are:
l The gun should always be considered as loaded, so one is always careful when handling the weapon;
l Never ever point the gun at a person or thing you do not mean to shoot. In the episode, Bancha shows how to point the gun in a safe direction;
l Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot;
l Be aware of your target as well as the foreground and background.
Teeranan explained that shooters must realise that if the wall behind them is strong, then the bullet may be deflected and hit other people, and if the wall is thin, then the bullet can go through it and hurt people behind it.
He also warned that people should realise that these four rules may still not be enough to prevent accidents if the gun users are not cautious and with self-awareness. He said the first episode’s aim was to explain to people that being alert and prepared for the unexpected was very important.
The title of the next episode is “Everyday Carry”, and it focuses on the items that one should always carry and how they can be used to protect oneself, he said.
“Tactical Line” will also cover other topics such as how one can escape from a sinking car, escape from the fourth floor of a building on fire and how to protect oneself when faced with a criminal wielding a knife.
“Some topics might appear to be too far-fetched, but anything can happen. This show is not about showing off talents, but about teaching people how to protect themselves, because if we can do it, you can do it too.”
