Crime DSI Seeks Frenchman in 18-Year-Old Thai Murder Mystery

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Photo via Facebook/ DSI กรมสอบสวนคดีพิเศษ

 

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in Thailand is reaching out to a foreign national, likely French, believed to have crucial information about the 18-year-old unsolved murder of Japanese tourist Tomoko Kawashita in Sukhothai.

 

In 2007, Kawashita, then 27, was discovered lifeless at Saphan Hin Temple, having suffered a fatal throat wound. Her belongings were missing, adding complexity to the case. Initially, suspicions fell on a Japanese acquaintance who swiftly left Thailand, refusing cooperation and DNA testing.

 

Efforts to identify the murderer included DNA sampling from 379 local men, yielding no matches. Forensic analysis suggested the suspect was foreign, prompting the DSI to intervene and announce a 2 million baht reward for leads.

 

Recently, the DSI pinpointed a European tourist, likely French, who might shed light on the crime. Investigators urge him to step forward, offering eligibility for the reward if his information proves pivotal.

 

This individual was last seen in 2007, aged 35-40, making him currently around 53-58. His presence at the crime scene solidifies the need for his testimony. Described as a European-looking man in a black outfit, he rented a motorcycle near the site, possibly travelling with a girlfriend described as European with distinctive blonde hair.

 

He and his partner stayed briefly in Sukhothai before moving to Chiang Mai. Authorities stress the importance of contacting them with any information regarding the man’s identity or location.

 

The DSI’s appeal underscores their commitment to resolve the long-standing case, hoping for a breakthrough that can finally bring justice and closure to Kawashita’s family. Those with pertinent information are urged to contact Suwapit Manopas at the DSI through the provided communication channels.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-24