Rapper Thanayut “Book” Na Ayuthaya—known better as Eleven Finger—who made his name rapping about the Khlong Toey slums was sentenced to one year in prison earlier today featuring two other co-defendants, according to the defendant's father at Ratchada Criminal Court. 

 

The precise conviction is not known at this time, but in 2022 Metropolitan police in Bangkok detained the Book in connection to an event in 2020 when Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha’s residence was supposedly attacked with so-called “ping-pong bombs.” The explosive devices, sometimes called cherry bombs, are small explosive devices only dangerous in close range and are designed to make a loud noise.

 

The rapper was originally charged with possessing explosives and culpability in the event. Book denies his role in throwing the explosive devices, but admitted that two of the people behind his vehicle who presumably threw the devices were known to him. Police reported that explosive materials were found at Book’s home after the event. 

 

A source close to the defendant tells BK that he was feeling hopeful that he would receive house arrest. Six other suspects in the bombing included his girlfriend Patima Fakthong, Pornpoj Chaengkrachang, and four teenagers whose names were not released. 

 

Prior to the judgement date, Eleven Finger took to social media to decry the upcoming sentencing. “In a military base that includes tanks, warships, and armed soldiers, how can anyone stand up to them? But when it's time to seize power, they come out to rob/steal/plunder the tanks,” the rapper said on Instagram.

 

At just 17 years old In 2018, Thanayut “Book” Na Ayuthaya challenged the stubborn biases against Bangkok’s largest slum with his music, garnering media attention for his "This is Klong Toey Compton," a rap battle with 48 hip-hop artists across the country. 

 

He was previously arrested in August 2020, and was featured in the award-winning documentary film School Town King, retelling his struggles breaking into the music scene and out of poverty.