27-2-2024 (BANGKOK) In the ongoing investigation of the murder case involving a heavily tattooed Taiwanese man, a Thai woman who was seen traveling with four fugitive Taiwanese gangsters has been apprehended in Cambodia.
The gang members are the primary suspects in the murder of the Taiwanese man, whose body was discovered near Suvarnabhumi airport in a deserted food stall. The victim had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the head.
Deputy national police chief, Pol Gen Thana Chuwong, announced on Tuesday that Cambodian authorities had successfully detained Piyanut Thammarat, a 23-year-old woman who was believed to be the owner of the red Mazda car used to transport the victim’s body from the crime scene to its eventual location.
Efforts are now underway to bring Ms. Piyanut back to Thailand to face charges. Pol Gen Thana emphasized the significance of her arrest, stating that she holds crucial information that could shed light on the case.
The Taiwanese victim was reportedly shot multiple times in the head at a residence in Bangkok’s Lat Phlakhao area, located in the Lat Phrao district. His body, adorned with tattoos, was later dumped near the airport.
According to authorities, the victim had fled Taiwan to evade arrest for robbery and illegal possession of a firearm. He was also suspected of involvement in other criminal activities.
Reports suggest that the victim arrived at the Lat Plakkhao house on a motorcycle around 2 a.m. on Sunday. Concurrently, the Taiwanese suspects entered Thailand at the same time and allegedly carried out the murder shortly thereafter. They subsequently left the country, crossing into Cambodia through the Aranyaprathet border checkpoint. Ms. Piyanut accompanied them on their journey.
Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Thana highlighted that the motive behind the murder could be connected to illicit activities. Further insights into the case are expected to emerge following the interrogation of Ms. Piyanut.
Three of the remaining suspects are believed to still be hiding in Cambodia, while the fourth individual reportedly traveled on to Taiwan. Taiwanese authorities have been requested to assist in his arrest.
Additionally, police have detained the driver of the van that transported the five suspects to the border in Sa Kaeo province on Sunday. The individual is being questioned regarding his involvement, although he maintains that he merely operated the vehicle, as stated by Pol Gen Thana.
