21-5-2024 (BANGKOK) Tensions flared at Government House on Tuesday as activists gathered to demand a prompt and transparent investigation into the death of their colleague, Netiporn Sanesangkhom, who tragically passed away last week while in detention.
The group, led by prominent figures such as Jatupat Boonpattararaksa, Tanapat Kapheng, and Patsaravalee Tanakitvibulpon, also called for the release on bail of political detainees, a postponement of arrests and prosecutions of political suspects, and an expedited amnesty law.
Approximately two dozen protesters converged at Gate 1 of Government House, where a brief scuffle ensued as some attempted to gain entry onto the premises. Riot police were present, but no arrests were reported.
Netiporn, affectionately known as “Boong,” suffered a fatal heart attack at 6:30 a.m. on May 14 at the Central Correctional Hospital. According to the Department of Corrections, resuscitation efforts commenced immediately, and she was rushed to Thammasat University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 11:22 p.m.
A core leader of the Thalu Wang protest group, the 28-year-old Netiporn had been imprisoned at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution since January 26, after her bail was revoked in connection with a lese-majeste charge.
The day after entering prison, Netiporn embarked on a hunger strike, demanding bail rights and the release of other political detainees. The department stated that while she began consuming food and liquids again in early April, the prolonged hunger strike had taken a toll on her health.
Preliminary autopsy findings indicated that acute heart failure was the primary cause of Netiporn’s death, with further laboratory tests pending to determine any contributing factors.
On Monday, Netiporn’s medical records were provided to her family’s lawyer, Kritsadang Nutcharus, who has been persistent in seeking clarity about the circumstances surrounding her death in the prison hospital. Kritsadang has alleged that during resuscitation attempts, an endotracheal tube was erroneously inserted into Netiporn’s esophagus instead of her windpipe.
At the Ministry of Justice on Tuesday, Dr. Pongpak Areyapinan, acting director of the Central Correctional Hospital, stated that he was present in the ambulance that transported Netiporn to Thammasat University Hospital, seated in the front. However, he declined to address Kritsadang’s allegation when questioned by reporters.
According to data from Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, as of April 30 this year, 1,954 individuals have been prosecuted for their involvement in political protests and expression since the inception of the Free Youth demonstrations in July 2020. At least 272 individuals are facing lese-majeste charges under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, while 152 have been charged with sedition under Section 116.
