Ex-Thai MP reportedly shoots dead govt official, surrenders afterwards

A former Thai MP has surrendered to police after allegedly shooting the president of a provincial administrative organisation and his driver on the morning of Aug. 10.

Chalong Riaowrang, a former Nonthaburi MP, allegedly shot Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) president Pol. Col. Thongchai Yenprasert at around 10:20am, according to Khaosod English.

How it happened

Thongchai was preparing to leave the Nonthaburi PAO office at the Nonthaburi Provincial Government Complex when the shooting took place.

Police said in their initial findings that Chalong had been waiting for Thongchai, then walked up to his car and knocked on the window. Thongchai lowered it to speak to him, and Chalong allegedly drew a firearm and started shooting.

Thongchai was shot four times, including in vital areas. His driver was also hit.

Both men were given emergency treatment at the scene by rescue workers from the Nonthaburi City Municipality before they were taken to Phra Nang Klao Hospital.

Thongchai later passed away.

Walked away, then surrendered

Staff at the nearby Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office reportedly filmed Chalong with a firearm in hand, which he then tucked into his waistband before leaving the scene.

He later surrendered at a police station.

Reported 11 million baht dispute

A possible motive surfaced after the shooting, when Chalong reportedly called media personality Anjalee while she was hosting a programme.

She said Chalong admitted to her that he had shot the PAO president, and that he had let off four or five rounds before leaving the area.

His grievance, according to her account, was that he had backed the other side and requested 11 million Baht (S$426,837), only to be told there was nothing for him.

He felt he had been badly treated, decided to shoot Thongchai, and told her he intended to surrender.

Khaosod English noted that these claims have not been independently verified, and that police have not confirmed a motive.

Investigation ongoing

Nonthaburi Governor Chettha Mosikarat inspected the scene alongside the deputy governor, the deputy commander of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police, and officers from Rattanathibet Police Station.

The area has been sealed off, with police gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses. Investigations are ongoing.