Senior Police Sergeant Shoots Village Headman in Heated Dispute in Phetchaburi

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

A senior police sergeant is in custody after allegedly shooting a village headman four times during a heated argument in Phetchaburi province. The incident occurred on the morning of 26 April in Moo 4, Yang Yong subdistrict, Ta Yang District.

According to police reports, the suspect, identified as Pol. Sgt. Maj. Bundit Siriwanich of Ta Yang Police Station, visited his long-time friend, Mr Pramote Phumthong, the village headman of Moo 4. The two men were reportedly having a conversation at the reception table in the garden of Mr Pramote’s home when the exchange turned confrontational.

It is believed that a remark made during the conversation upset Sgt. Maj. Bundit, leading to a verbal altercation. As Mr Pramote walked away into the house, the officer, still enraged, drew a 9mm handgun and fired four shots. One bullet struck Mr Pramote in the left buttock.

Three spent casings were recovered near the seating area and a fourth was found approximately ten metres away. Mr Pramote was swiftly transported to Ta Yang Hospital by family members and is reported to be in a stable condition.

Following the shooting, Sgt. Maj. Bundit initially fled the scene but later surrendered himself at Ta Yang Police Station. An investigation is underway.

Police officials confirmed that the officer and the village headman had known each other for some time and were thought to be on friendly terms prior to the incident.

The motive appears to have stemmed from a personal dispute, and further charges are expected as the case progresses.