UPDATE

Picture of arrest.

 

In a dramatic turn of events, a husband and wife wanted for the murder of a renowned farmer in Phatthalung were captured in Chiang Rai on January 22. Authorities suspect the couple was planning to escape across the border to Myanmar.

 

At approximately 10:30, officers from the Special Operations Unit in Chiang Rai Province, in collaboration with investigators from the Mae Sai Police Station, raided a rented property in the Ban Pa Mueat area of Mae Sai district. The suspects had been traced to the location following intelligence from Phatthalung police.

 

The two suspects, identified as husband and wife, were arrested under warrants issued by the Phatthalung Provincial Court:

 

1. Mr. Sahaphap (alias Homong), 51, of Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung. He is charged with premeditated murder and possession of firearms and ammunition without a licence.

 

2. Ms. Natthita (alias Namnoei), 32, of Chum Phae district, Khon Kaen. She faces the same charges as her husband.

 

During initial questioning, the pair claimed to be tourists visiting Mae Sai and denied any involvement in the murder. They stated that they had rented the property as accommodation during their trip, which began on January 19. However, authorities suspect they were attempting to flee across the border to Tachileik, Myanmar.

 

The arrests stem from the murder of Mr. Phop 72, a well-known and award-winning farmer from Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung. Mr. Phop, owner of the celebrated “Uncle Phop’s Salacca Garden,” was gunned down on January 10th, sustaining six fatal gunshot wounds.

 

Following the crime, Phatthalung police coordinated with their counterparts in Chiang Rai after evidence suggested the suspects had fled north. The arrests were carried out without incident.

 

Authorities are continuing their investigation and plan to transport the suspects back to Phatthalung to face charges. Meanwhile, officials are working to uncover potential motives and the sequence of events leading to the murder.

 

Related article:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1348566-respected-farmer-and-agricultural-leader-shot-dead-in-phatthalung/

 

-- 2025-01-23

 

 

Looks like the cop is giving the captured suspect a massage.

Softening him up and getting him ready for JAIL!

award winning farmer. but that doesn't explain the motive.