Manhunt Underway After Police Officer Shot Dead in Drug Bust

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath.

 

An incident unfolded in Loei province during the morning of 10 April, when a police officer was shot and killed while investigating a drug-related suspect in a rubber plantation. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Boonkerd, fled the scene after fatally wounding the officer.

 

At around 08:00, a team of four police officers from the Loei City Police Station received intelligence about Boonkerd’s involvement in drug activities, particularly methamphetamine. They arrived at a small hut in the rubber plantation in the village of Ko Phai Thon, where Boonkerd was suspected to be staying.

 

Upon spotting the officers, Boonkerd attempted to flee but was pursued by the police. During the chase, he turned and opened fire, shooting Lieutenant Colonel Phairoj Phromin, the deputy head of the police station’s operations unit, twice in the chest. Phairoj collapsed at the scene. Boonkerd then continued to flee approximately 20 metres, firing another shot at the officers. Police returned fire, but the suspect managed to escape into the rubber plantation.

 

The remaining officers rushed to Phairoj’s side, but he was already unresponsive. Despite efforts to revive him, Phairoj was later confirmed dead. Authorities were alerted, and emergency services arrived, but it was too late to save him.

 

In response, Deputy Provincial Police Chief Thanutep Rithluechai quickly arrived at the scene and organised a manhunt with special commando and investigation teams. The police have been combing the area and surrounding plantations in search of Boonkerd, who has a criminal history related to drugs, including two prior convictions. He was recently released from prison.

 

The incident has left the local police force shaken, and the authorities have vowed to bring Boonkerd to justice. The search continues as the police work to apprehend the fugitive.

 

-- 2025-04-11

 

[flyingtlger]

8 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

During the chase, he turned and opened fire, shooting Lieutenant Colonel Phairoj Phromin, the deputy head of the police station’s operations unit, twice in the chest

 

Lucky shot or trained sharp shooter?

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Manhunt for Meth Trafficker Who Shot Police Officer in Loei 

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

A massive manhunt is underway in Loei after a suspected drug dealer shot and killed a police officer during a raid in a remote rubber plantation. Over 300 police officers have been mobilised in the search for 33-year-old Boonkerd, who is believed to still be hiding within Thai territory.

 

The incident occurred in Kok Du Subdistrict, Mueang District, Loei Province, when police attempted to apprehend Boonkerd at a hut deep in a rubber plantation in Ban Kor Phai Thon. During the operation, Boonkerd allegedly opened fire with a handgun of unknown make and calibre, fatally striking Police Sub-Lieutenant Pairach Promin in the chest. The officer, who was serving as Deputy Inspector of Mueang Loei Police Station, died at the scene.

 

Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatrachai Surachetphong, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 4, immediately dispatched investigative teams to the area to pursue the suspect. An arrest warrant has since been issued for Boonkerd, who remains at large.

 

Deputy Commissioner and Police Region 4 spokesperson Pol. Maj. Gen. Pissanu Unnaseree urged the public to assist by reporting any information related to Boonkerd’s whereabouts through the emergency hotline, assuring that all tips will be kept confidential.

 

Addressing speculation that a “shoot-to-kill” order had been issued, the spokesperson clarified that all operations are being conducted in accordance with legal protocols. He stated that police are acting within the law and will use force only if the suspect resists arrest or poses a threat. If Boonkerd surrenders, officers will carry out a lawful arrest and proceed with prosecution.

 

The suspect’s family has reportedly pleaded with him to surrender, though no formal communication has been received indicating an intent to do so. Intelligence suggests he remains in hiding within Thailand and law enforcement continues to apply pressure in targeted areas to ensure his capture.

 

Authorities are also taking steps to support the family of the slain officer. In recognition of his service, the National Police Commissioner and the Commander of Police Region 4 have approved a posthumous promotion of seven ranks. Additionally, a personal donation of 100,000 baht has been made to the officer’s family, and arrangements are being made for a royal-sponsored cremation to honour his sacrifice.

 

The police continue their manhunt with unwavering commitment as they seek justice for their fallen colleague.

 

-- 2025-04-13

 

 

 

[sungod]

Shame they couldn't have rustled up a similar sized posse when another of 'their own' was killed, dragged up the road under a Ferrari in Thong Lor.

[Tropicalevo]

32 minutes ago, sungod said:

Shame they couldn't have rustled up a similar sized posse when another of 'their own' was killed, dragged up the road under a Ferrari in Thong Lor.

And the nasty, entitled little git who killed that policeman is still running around, as free as a bird.

It is now nearly 13 years after he did it.

[KhunBENQ]

Doesn't sound like the operation was well planned.

Approaching a known drug criminal without  the necessary precaution? No safety vests? No automatic weapons to bring this scum down?