Village Head Allegedly Hired Hitman Over Life Insurance Dispute

Crime

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September 21, 2025Sep 21

Picture courtesy of Daily News

A 24-year-old rescue worker, Sarayut Nokchan, was shot dead on 11 September in Ban Phraek, Ayutthaya Province, in what police now say was a contract killing allegedly orchestrated by the village headman. The incident occurred at around 21:00 on a roadside near Khlong Noi, with Sarayut killed at close range while riding his rescue motorbike. Authorities have since arrested the alleged gunman, 31-year-old Wacharawit “Joe” Sroikham, who confessed to carrying out the shooting.

The killing followed a pattern of suspected premeditation, with Wacharawit claiming he was hired and provided with a firearm by 31-year-old village headman Phanupon. Earlier attempts to ambush Sarayut had failed. On the night of 11 September, the village headman reportedly alerted Wacharawit that Sarayut was returning home, leading to a ruse where Sarayut stopped to assist a supposedly broken-down motorbike before being shot in the neck with a homemade shotgun.

Police investigations included searches of the village headman’s home, which did not uncover the weapon but yielded clothing discarded in a nearby forest for forensic analysis. Phanupon was taken in for questioning, with samples collected to test for gunpowder residue and DNA; he denies any involvement.

Investigators are exploring the motive, focusing on life insurance payouts connected to Sarayut’s father. The father’s policy, valued at 2 million baht, was reportedly managed by Phanupon, who allegedly gave only 50,000–60,000 baht to the family. Sarayut had reportedly expressed dissatisfaction and a new policy was taken out for him two months before the murder.

Community leaders have reacted with shock. Nawin Khongdee, president of the Ayutthaya Ruamjai Rescue Association, described Sarayut as a dedicated and selfless worker despite his family’s modest means. He expressed confidence in the justice system to prosecute those behind the killing, emphasising the importance of uncovering the alleged mastermind.

Authorities continue to gather evidence, conduct forensic tests, and question witnesses. The case remains under investigation as police seek to determine the full extent of the village headman’s involvement and resolve outstanding questions over the financial disputes that may have motivated the murder.