Prachin Buri: The investigation into the murder of ‘Sor Jor Tong’ has been expedited following the emergence of a threatening audio clip. The national police chief has ordered a swift probe into the shooting, which is suspected to stem from local political tensions. The leaked audio, referencing a financial dispute of 20 million baht, has added a new dimension to the case.
According to Thai News Agency, ‘Sor Jor Tong’ was fatally shot at the residence of Mr. Sunthorn Wilawan, the president of the Prachin Buri Provincial Administrative Organization. Police have detained Mr. Sunthorn and seven others, including the alleged shooter, Mr. Sakdisit or Toon, for questioning. Despite the ongoing investigation, no official statements have been released. Ms. Bang-on Wilawan, Mr. Sunthorn’s sister, expressed confidence in her brother’s innocence, noting the familial bond between Mr. Sunthorn and the deceased.
Allegations have surfaced suggesting the shooting was a result of personal conflict rather than political disc
ord. Close associates of Mr. Sunthorn reported that a previous altercation between ‘Sor Jor Tong’ and one of Mr. Sunthorn’s subordinates might have escalated into the fatal encounter. The subordinate, reportedly upset over past confrontations, allegedly shot ‘Sor Jor Tong’ after a heated exchange.
The bereaved wife of ‘Sor Jor Tong’, Ms. Napapat, along with relatives, collected his body from the Institute of Forensic Medicine amidst a backdrop of mourning. Funeral rites are scheduled from December 12 to 16, with cremation set for December 17 at Wat Makok Simaram in Prachin Buri.
Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, has deployed the Crime Suppression Division to collaborate with local police in the investigation. The operation has led to the apprehension of suspects and the seizure of weapons involved. The national police chief underscored the need to explore potential political motives behind the murder, stressing the investigation’s impartiality amidst circulating rumors of political infl
uence.
The case remains under intense scrutiny as authorities aim to unravel the underlying motives and bring those responsible to justice.