SINGAPORE – Fugitive politician Jakrapob Penkair, who vanished from Thailand in the early days of last week’s UDD protests, appeared publically for the first time in today in Singapore where he spoke to the press while wearing a full Batman costume. The Thaksin supporter spoke of plans underway to build a “vast, underground network of tunnels” as a base for the Red Shirts, who would now operate nocturnally.
“Bangkok is infested with a disease, and we are the cure,” he said cryptically from behind a heavy black mask attached to a cowl and cape. “Our methods are silent and invisible. Our movements are undetectable. We will strike from the dark and bring fear into the hearts of the enemy.”
Jakrapob did not elaborate on exactly who the enemy was, although he insisted that it was not the PAD. “We did not try to kill Sondhi,” he said, referring to the recent gun attack on PAD leader Sonthi Limthongkul. “Bullets are the clumsy weapons of the greater enemy.”
Responding to the arrest warrant against him and allegations of lese majeste, Jakrapob said cryptically, “There are four kings in the deck, but only two Jokers. Who has the real power?”
When queried by reporters about the Batman costume, Jakrapob declared the press conference over and then detonated a small smoke bomb on the table, disappearing in the ensuing confusion.
According to his press manager, Jakrapob is scheduled to appear on CNN next Thursday.
