Police Arrest ‘Serial’ Killer of Homeless Men in Chiang Mai

Police in Chiang Mai have arrested a 31-year-old man accused of killing two homeless men and attempting to burn one body to conceal the crime. The suspect, named as Panae Puli, reportedly confessed to both killings, citing disputes over a mobile phone and irritation over body odour as motives. Authorities say the case has raised concerns over the safety of vulnerable homeless populations in the city.

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The arrests were announced on 1 May by Police Region 5 Commissioner Lt Gen Kritthaphon Yeesakhon, alongside senior Chiang Mai police officers. The case began on 29 April at around 08:15, when officers from Chang Phueak Police Station were alerted to a burned body found under Rattanakosin Bridge in Muang district. The victim, identified as 51-year-old homeless man Boonrueang Muensri, had been stabbed in the neck before his body was set on fire.

A second body was discovered on 30 April at around 11:15 under Khrua Sali Wiang Ping Bridge in Faham subdistrict. The victim, 46-year-old Joe Saengsen, was also homeless and was found with injuries consistent with a violent assault. Police investigations led to the arrest of Panae, who is also homeless and originally from Chiang Rai province.

During questioning, the suspect admitted killing both men. He told police that he stabbed Boonrueang with a cutter knife after failing to recover a mobile phone, before setting fire to a mattress to burn the body. In the second case, he said he attacked Joe, a known acquaintance, after a dispute involving a blanket and irritation over his smell, kicking and stomping him for more than 10 minutes until he died.

Panae also reportedly confessed to a third killing in Chiang Rai on 7 January 2026, where he used a rock and a knife to kill another homeless man before fleeing to Lampang and later Chiang Mai. Police are now expanding their investigation to determine whether additional crimes may be linked to the suspect in other areas where he had stayed.

Authorities have charged him with murder and concealment of a body to hide the cause of death. Officials also noted his history of drug use, drug dealing and prior convictions for drug offences and theft, with his most recent release from prison on 27 March 2025.

Police said they will coordinate with the provincial social development and human security office to review measures for managing homeless populations and preventing similar crimes. Efforts will also include addressing drug-related crime within these communities.

Daily News reported that investigators will continue gathering evidence and liaising with other provinces to confirm the suspect’s movements and possible involvement in further cases. The suspect remains in custody as legal proceedings continue.

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 2 May 2026