UTHAI THANI, Thailand – A convicted sex offender has confessed to stalking and murdering a high school student on her way to school.
The 35-year-old arrested last week had reportedly been tracking the victim on Facebook for several days before the attack. He was released from prison just seven months prior, having served time for rape.
Suspect Confesses and Details Ambush
Known locally as ‘Iang’, the man was apprehended on the evening of June 12 following an extensive search by over 50 officers. He admitted to the attack, which occurred around 6:30 AM on the Bo Yang – Nong Takhian road, to local village leaders and police.
He stated he did not know the victim personally but had observed her on Facebook for days, knowing she regularly commuted to school by motorcycle. He claimed to have waited for her in the forest since 3 AM that morning.
Strikes Again Seven Months After Release
According to police reports, the 35-year-old had previously served time for rape and theft. His release occurred approximately seven months before his recent arrest. His father claimed he was unaware of his son’s criminal past.
Among the items recovered by investigators was a vehicle key. The alleged murder weapon is believed to have been discarded by the suspect about a kilometer from the crime scene. During the incident, he was wearing khaki shorts and a Buriram United football jersey.
Father Speaks of Mental Health Issues
The suspect’s father told reporters that his son initially spoke of a motorcycle accident following the incident. He had scraped knees and claimed to have been eating noodle soup. The father later recognized his son’s red shoes in a photo shared on a village WhatsApp group.
He stated his son suffers from mental health problems and does not take his prescribed medication. The father also reiterated he had no knowledge of the previous rape conviction. The 35-year-old himself described his actions as an act of impulse.
Residents Want to See the Perpetrator’s Face
When word spread that the suspect was to be transferred to the Sawang Arom police station, a crowd of over 100 villagers gathered. They wished to see the man responsible for the brutal killing of the student, known for her diligence and helpfulness. On days off school, the girl reportedly assisted her father with his work to support the family.
The atmosphere became so tense that officers deployed civil defense forces and village security volunteers to keep the crowd at bay. There were concerns about potential mob justice, as explained by operation leader Police General Worawat Mali.
Police Weigh Reconstruction Amid Safety Concerns
The Deputy Commander of Police Region 6 expressed confidence that the confession and recovered evidence firmly pointed to the correct suspect. Interrogations are continuing at the Sawang Arom station to expedite the case for court presentation.
Whether a public crime scene reconstruction will take place remains uncertain. Investigators are assessing the suspect’s willingness to cooperate and whether his safety can be guaranteed. The case has caused widespread shock in the region.
Evidence Expected to Be Complete by Saturday
The suspect was transferred to the Sawang Arom station on Friday evening around 9:30 PM. He remained silent when reporters questioned him about the motive for killing the student. Angry residents shouted curses at him as officers shielded him.
Police General Worawat Mali anticipates that all evidence will be fully compiled by June 13. He appealed to the public for trust in the police force’s efforts to bring the case to a swift conclusion.