Gunman Ambush Kills Cattle Breeder in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A 46-year-old man was shot dead in a suspected ambush outside his home in Chawang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, on 4 January 2026, with the killing unfolding in front of his wife. Police said the victim collapsed and died at the scene from a single gunshot wound, prompting a large-scale investigation and the deployment of specialist detectives due to the severity of the crime.

The shooting was reported at about 21.30 on 4 January to Chawang Police Station, according to investigators. Pol Lt Col Chamnarn Noosaeng, deputy investigation inspector, led the initial response alongside Pol Col Choti Phet Nongchum, station chief, and Pol Lt Col Phubet Thongthieng, deputy superintendent, with medical staff from Chawang Hospital and local rescue workers attending.

At the scene, officers found the body of Mr Nirand, 46, the homeowner, lying on his back in a pool of blood. He was wearing a grey long-sleeved T-shirt and black tracksuit trousers and had been shot once near the left ear with a firearm of unknown calibre.

His wife, who witnessed the attack, was in shock and tearful when police arrived. She told officers that she had been talking with her husband outside their house when an assailant was laying in wait and opened fire, killing him instantly in front of her.

Investigators said Mr Nirand worked as a bull-fighting cattle breeder and was known locally as friendly and well liked. Police said there was no immediate indication of a specific dispute and the motive remained unclear at the time of reporting. Detectives have begun reviewing CCTV footage from the area and nearby locations to trace the suspect’s movements.

Forensic officers were instructed to collect gunshot residue from the wound area and the body was sent for post-mortem examination at Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital to secure further evidence. Police Major General Pornchai Khajornklin, deputy commander of Region 8 Police acting as provincial commander, ordered an experienced investigative team to the scene. He instructed officers to urgently resolve the case, describing it as a serious and shocking violent crime.

Khoasod reported that police said they are considering two to three possible motives but declined to disclose details to avoid compromising the investigation. Officers said efforts would continue to gather evidence and track down the gunman for prosecution.

Key Takeaways

• A 46-year-old cattle breeder was shot dead in an ambush outside his home in Chawang district on 5 January 2026.

• The victim’s wife witnessed the shooting, while police have yet to reveal the suspected motives.

• Senior police ordered specialist investigators to expedite the hunt for the suspect.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-01-06