Thai Man in Drink Driving Custody Dies; Foul Play Ruled Out

webfact · Tuesday at 02:59 AM

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath

A Thai man, 57-year-old Thongsai, has died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody at Chaiyaphruek Police Station in Nonthaburi after being arrested for drink driving. The incident has raised concerns, prompting his wife, Tippawan, to demand a deeper investigation.

Tippawan disclosed that she was unaware of Thongsai's detention until contacted by the police after his death. This lack of communication has added to her distress. She insisted that although her husband was a frequent drinker, he had no known health issues that might have explained such a sudden death.

Police have shared CCTV footage from the cell showing Thongsai lying on the ground, initially moving then becoming still. Duty Officer Samirt Samae stated all potential harmful items were removed from his possession, including his mobile phones. Thongsai was reportedly snoring through the night, with breathing stopping around 4 a.m., discovered by officers during a routine check.

Superintendent Sonchai Chookaew has dismissed allegations of police misconduct or foul play, affirming that there was no harm or self-inflicted injury involved. An initial autopsy suggests a haemorrhagic stroke as the cause, potentially linked to heavy alcohol consumption. A comprehensive autopsy is underway to confirm these findings.

Contrasting views have emerged within Thongsai's family. While Tippawan remains sceptical about the role of alcohol, their daughter believes it is linked to his health issues from drinking, noting the absence of any signs of physical assault or injury. She corroborated that he had been drinking before leaving for work in Pathum Thani province.

The case has sparked discussions about the thoroughness of the police's procedures and the need for clear communication with families of detainees. Further updates are awaited as the detailed autopsy results become available.

-- 2024-11-12

hotchilli · Tuesday at 06:49 AM

3 hours ago, webfact said:

She insisted that although her husband was a frequent drinker, he had no known health issues that might have explained such a sudden death.

Liver failure can be sudden.