Durian Orchard Owner Shot Dead in Nakhon Si Thammarat

A 35-year-old durian orchard owner was found shot dead in his orchard in Lan Saka district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, on the morning of 28 February 2026. Police reported he died from blood loss after being shot multiple times. Officers are investigating several possible motives and are searching for the gunman.

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Police were alerted at 8.30am on 28 February 2026 to the discovery of a body in a durian orchard in Soi Suan Na, Moo 2, Khao Kaew subdistrict, Lan Saka district. Attending the scene were Pol Lt Theerawut Aksornkul, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Lan Saka Police Station, Pol Col Phin Inmak, Superintendent of Lan Saka Police Station, Pol Lt Col Chuyot Jindanakhon, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation), forensic officers, a duty doctor from Lan Saka Hospital, and rescue workers from Sawang Tham Khiri Thammasathan Nakhon Si Thammarat Foundation and Sawang Lan Saka Rescue.

The deceased was identified as Mr Jaturong, 35, the owner of the orchard. He was found lying on his back with gunshot wounds to his right arm, right leg and left leg. His face showed abrasions and his head had bruising and officers estimated he had been dead for at least 10 to 12 hours.

Investigators said the bullets did not strike vital organs but believe he died from significant blood loss. Forensic officers examined the scene for evidence linked to the suspect.

Police inquiries established that at around 8pm the previous evening, Mr Jaturong had gone to buy food at a shop at the entrance to the alley before returning to the orchard with a friend. Later that night, villagers reported hearing five to six gunshots in quick succession but did not investigate, as gunfire is reportedly heard in the area on a regular basis.

His body was discovered the following morning by someone passing through the orchard, who then notified authorities. Police said Mr Jaturong had a history of involvement with drugs and had been suspected in connection with property belonging to villagers going missing.

Khoasod reported that investigators are also examining the possibility of a personal conflict within a group. Witnesses reported that a friend had been with Mr Jaturong on the night of the shooting, and officers have taken that individual for gunshot residue testing. Police said they will continue gathering evidence to identify and apprehend the suspect and proceed with legal action.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 1 Mar 2026