UPDATE Death penalty calls after Russian siblings' murders Picture courtesy of Amarin Thai social-media users have called for the death penalty for suspects accused in the murders of five people in Chon Buri, including two Russian siblings whose bodies were buried in Huay Yai. The calls followed the arrest of Thana Keridthong, known as "Pong", and Thongchai, known as "Thong", under warrants issued by Pattaya Provincial Court in connection with the deaths of the Russian brother and sister. Online anger over tourism concerns Online comments have demanded capital punishment, describing the killings as a shocking case and raising concerns about Thailand's image as a safe tourism and overseas settlement destination. Commenters also described the suspects as dangerous, claiming they had reoffended after previous releases from prison. Former girlfriend makes allegations Separately, there are claims from a woman who said she was formerly in a relationship with Pong. She said she had submitted chat records and a police report as evidence, and alleged that he controlled, threatened and physically assaulted her. She also claimed he forced her to watch videos involving murders and assaults. The woman further alleged that he once dug a hole, forced her to lie in it and threatened to bury her alive. She said she had decided to make a report and was willing to assist police as a witness if her information could help investigators. 1 August 2026
