51-Year-Old Shot Dead in Phatthalung Land Dispute

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

A 51-year-old man was shot dead at close range on a rural road in Bang Kaeo district, Phatthalung province, on Friday, 16 January 2026, prompting a police investigation into a suspected land dispute motive. The attack occurred in broad daylight and has raised concerns among local residents about safety in the area. The victim later died in hospital despite emergency treatment, and police say they are preparing to seek an arrest warrant.

Police were alerted at 12.55pm to a shooting on the Hat Khai Tao–Ban Bang Khuan road in Moo 11, Na Pa Kho subdistrict. Officers from Bang Kaeo Police Station, led by duty officer Pol Lt Col Phongsak Khaonuan, rushed to the scene with rescue volunteers. They found a black Honda three-wheeled motorcycle with a sidecar parked on the road, a large pool of blood, and one spent 11mm cartridge case, which was seized as evidence.

The injured man was identified as Mr Chamnong, aged 51, who had sustained gunshot wounds to the head, chest and left rib area. Rescue workers attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the scene before rushing him to Bang Kaeo Hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries after arrival at the hospital.

Investigators said preliminary inquiries indicated that Mr Chamnong had been riding his motorcycle home when he encountered the suspect on the road. The two men reportedly stopped and spoke briefly before the situation escalated. The suspect allegedly drew a firearm and shot Mr Chamnong at point-blank range before fleeing the scene.

Police believe the killing stemmed from a long-running personal conflict, particularly a dispute over land ownership. According to investigators, the victim and the suspect had been in conflict for some time and were involved in ongoing legal proceedings over the land, which were already before the courts. Officers believe this dispute was the key motive behind the fatal shooting.

Authorities said the incident has unsettled residents because it occurred during the day on a public road. Police have increased inquiries in the area, interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence to support the case. Officers are also reviewing any information that may help establish the suspect’s movements before and after the shooting.

Naewna reported thar Bang Kaeo Police Station confirmed that investigators are compiling evidence to seek court approval for an arrest warrant. The suspect is believed to be personally known to the victim and directly linked to the land dispute. Police said efforts will continue to track down the suspect and pursue prosecution in accordance with the law.

Key Takeaways

• A 51-year-old man was shot dead on 16 January 2026 on a road in Bang Kaeo district, Phatthalung.

• Police believe the motive was a long-running land dispute already subject to court proceedings.

• Investigators are gathering evidence and preparing to seek an arrest warrant for a known suspect.

Related stories

Three-injured-in-Nakhon-Pathom-beer-garden-shooting

Gunman-sought-after-air-conditioner-technician-shot-dead

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Naewna 2026-01-17