Man Arrested for Murder of Neighbour in Khon Kaen's Phon District

[Georgealbert]

 

 

Police in Khon Kaen on November 15, apprehended a man who allegedly murdered his neighbour in a violent attack with a fishing spear. The suspect, 49-year-old Thawatchai Piwkham, reportedly admitted to killing 55-year-old Boonkong Divo due to feelings of frustration and stress following his mother's recent death.

 

The incident occurred in a rice field near Ban Sakaeo, Moo 8, Kaeng Ngiew Subdistrict. Authorities found Mr. Boonkong lying face-up by a canal, with eight stab wounds in his neck inflicted by a sharp metal spear used for fishing. Following the attack, Mr. Thawatchai fled on foot into a nearby rice field but was apprehended about 500 metres from the crime scene by investigators from Phon Police Station.

 

Mr. Thawatchai led officers to the murder weapon, a blood- stained fishing spear, abandoned roughly 50 metres from the scene. He was taken into custody and transported to the police station for further questioning.

 

During interrogation, Mr. Thawatchai confessed to the killing, explaining that his mother had passed away only two days earlier, leaving him distraught and unable to cope. He claimed that seeing Mr. Boonkong's face triggered feelings of anger, prompting him to attack. According to Mr. Thawatchai, he struck Mr. Boonkong, causing him to fall into the canal, then fatally stabbed him only once with the spear before fleeing.

 

Police charged Mr. Thawatchai with premeditated murder. A search of his home revealed drug paraphernalia, and records indicated a prior drug-related offense.

 

Relatives of the victim described ongoing tension between the two men. Mr. Chalerm, the victim's nephew, explained that the family had rented a neighbouring rice field for the past six years. Mr. Thawatchai recently returned to the area from Bangkok, whereupon he began frequently antagonising the family, demanding to know why they were working nearby. Despite repeated confrontations, Mr. Chalerm had previously attempted to ignore the provocations, shocked by the brutal outcome of the long-standing animosity.

 

Meanwhile, Ms. Nooka, 60, the grandmother of the accused, shared that Mr. Thawatchai was deeply affected by his mother's and grandfather's recent deaths. She noted that Mr. Thawatchai had once been a helpful person, often sharing fish with his grandfather. Although she was unaware of any specific grievances between her grandson and the victim, Ms. Nooka acknowledged the tragedy and expressed sorrow for all involved.

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

-- 2024-11-16