BANGKOK, Thailand – A dispute over a few Baht escalated tragically, resulting in a double homicide.
A border policeman allegedly opened fire on Prachasongkhro Soi 38, fatally shooting two motorbike taxi drivers and injuring a third. The 33-year-old suspect later surrendered to authorities, but the criminal court surprisingly granted him bail, to the dismay of the victims’ families.
Blutige Eskalation vor den Augen der Nachbarschaft
The incident was triggered by a heated argument over motorbike taxi fares. The accused, identified as S.T.O. Namthap Phakwatthana from Border Police Unit 21, clashed with several drivers after failing to reach an agreement on the prices.
The dispute quickly devolved into a physical fight. During the altercation, Namthap reportedly drew a firearm. Phurit, 37, and Charin, 48, were killed in the ensuing gunfire. A third driver, Kiattisak, 46, survived with injuries.
Täter stellt sich – nur ein leises Wort der Reue
Following the shooting, Namthap did not flee but instead surrendered to the authorities. On June 15, investigators from the Huai Khwang Police Station brought him to the criminal court. He appeared with his head bowed and a cap pulled low over his face.
To reporters, he offered only a brief apology. When asked if the other party had initiated the fight, he responded with a muffled “Yes” before disappearing into a police vehicle without further comment.
Schwere Anklage und Fluchtgefahr
The prosecution has charged the officer with intentional murder, attempted murder, and illegal possession of a firearm in public. Namthap has denied all allegations during the investigation.
The police requested twelve days of pre-trial detention until June 26 and opposed any release, citing concerns that the suspect might abscond and evade a future trial.
Vater bietet Millionendomizil – Ehefrauen in Tränen
In court, the officer’s father posted a condominium in the Makkasan district as collateral for bail. The property is valued at approximately one million Baht.
Shortly after, the wives of the two deceased men arrived at the court and personally lodged their protests. Their faces were etched with grief and anger as they expressed their opposition to the bail being granted.