A former Thai lawmaker has allegedly shot dead a local government official in Nonthaburi province before confessing to the killing during a YouTube livestream.
Former Nonthaburi MP Chalong Reawraeng allegedly shot Thongchai Yenprasert outside Thongchai’s office on Monday. Thongchai, a retired police colonel, was president of the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO).
He was shot in the neck and later died in hospital. Thongchai’s driver was also wounded during the attack. He suffered gunshot wounds to his arm and hand.
Former MP Explains Shooting
Chalong was arrested after the shooting, where he was later allowed to speak to reporters at a police station. During the press conference, he attempted to explain what had happened.
Chalong said Thongchai had been angry with him, not explaining the reason for the disagreement. He also claimed that he did not intend to shoot Thongchai. According to Chalong, the two men had been friends.
Local media reports said the pair were involved in a personal dispute. Chalong claimed he had approached Thongchai because he wanted to speak with him. He said Thongchai refused to talk and pushed him away. Chalong then followed him towards his car, and claimed he pulled out a gun but did not initially intend to fire.
According to his account, Thongchai’s driver then pulled out another gun and pointed it at him. Chalong said he responded by firing his weapon.
Alleged Confession During Youtube Livestream
Before his arrest, Chalong reportedly called political commentator Anchalee Paireerak. Anchalee was livestreaming on YouTube when she received the call. However, she answered the phone during her programme. Viewers could not hear everything Chalong said during the call.
However, Anchalee appeared shocked by what she heard. She asked whether Thongchai had died. Also telling Chalong to remain at the scene and wait for police. The footage was later seen by the BBC.
The incident has drawn attention because of the unusual way the former lawmaker allegedly confessed to the shooting.
The killing comes just days after another deadly shooting in Thailand. A 14-year-old boy reportedly killed eight people at his home and school on Friday. Although he later took his own life.
The incident was described as Thailand’s worst mass shooting since 2022 .Authorities have said the two shootings are not connected. However, the latest killing is expected to renew debate over gun control in Thailand.
Thailand has one of the highest rates of civilian gun ownership in Southeast Asia. Following Friday’s mass shooting, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered tougher enforcement of existing gun laws. Police were also instructed to establish checkpoints as part of a wider crackdown.
The measures include tighter controls on the possession, carrying and use of firearms. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Monday’s shooting.
