Chinese Man Surrenders to Thai Police in Drugs Case Linked to Escort’s Death

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

A 37-year-old Chinese national has surrendered to authorities in connection with the drug-related death of a young Thai woman at a Bangkok hotel earlier this year.

Mr Douying Wu turned himself in at Chok Chai Police Station on 27 June, accompanied by his legal counsel. He had been the subject of an arrest warrant issued on 16 April, following a long investigation into the death of 22-year-old Ms Airada, who was found deceased at a hotel in Bangkok’s Bang Kapi district on 10 February 2025.

Police report that Ms Airada, a freelance model, was discovered unclothed and unresponsive by hotel staff in the early hours of the morning. While no physical injuries were apparent, officers recovered ketamine and a party drug known as “happy water” at the scene. She had checked into the hotel the previous evening with Mr Wu, who alerted staff to her condition before abruptly departing once she was pronounced dead.

Forensic analysis confirmed that her death was drug-related and further investigation revealed chat messages indicating she had been hired via a modelling agency for a four-to-five-hour engagement, reportedly worth 6,000 baht. The messages showed Ms Airada was reluctant to take drugs but was allegedly pressured to do so.

An 18-year-old woman named Ms Panita, also known as “Alin,” was arrested on 17 February for procuring prostitution, after police identified her as the person who had recruited the victim. Mr Wu, however, had already fled to neighbouring Laos, prompting cross-border cooperation and surveillance that eventually led to his surrender.

Mr Wu now faces multiple charges, including the distribution of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and MDMA), distribution of Category 2 psychotropic substances (ketamine) and negligent homicide.

During police questioning, Mr Wu denied coercing the victim, admitting only to consuming drugs alongside her. He claimed she had taken the substances voluntarily.

Related article:

https://aseannow.com/topic/1351973-chinese-man-faces-arrest-over-death-of-thai-woman-in-hotel-room/

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-28