PATTAYA, Thailand – Thai authorities have uncovered the remains of a 30-year-old Russian man who had been reported missing for more than three weeks, buried in multiple locations on vacant land in Nongprue, East Pattaya, Banglamung district. Investigators believe the killing may be linked to an unpaid debt and are pursuing suspects believed to be the victim’s fellow nationals.
The victim, identified as Mr. Mikhail Emelianov, disappeared under mysterious circumstances, prompting his mother, Ms. Olga Lazabenko, 51, to travel from Russia to Thailand to file a missing person report on January 8. She told police her son had previously received threatening messages from Russian acquaintances demanding repayment of a debt totaling USD 120,000 (about 3.7 million baht), raising fears for his safety.
Following her complaint, investigative teams intensified efforts, reviewing CCTV footage and tracing the victim’s movements. At around 4:00 p.m. on February 1, investigators discovered human remains buried at five separate spots near a pond on vacant land in Soi Phatthanakan 4. The burial points were spaced roughly one to two meters apart.
Preliminary findings indicate the remains had been separated and buried individually. Some parts were wrapped in black plastic bags, while others were covered with clothing matching what Mr. Emelianov was last seen wearing—a black T-shirt and light green long trousers. Authorities believe the remains belong to the missing man, though forensic confirmation is ongoing.
Senior officers, forensic specialists, medical examiners, and investigators jointly inspected the site as evidence was carefully recovered for examination.
Investigators have also reported that two foreign suspects have been detained in Bangkok and are being questioned in connection with the case. While details have not yet been released, police believe the suspects are acquaintances of the victim. A possible motive under investigation is a violent dispute over debt, with threatening messages allegedly referencing illegal activities. Officials stressed that the exact motive has not yet been officially confirmed.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and further updates will be provided as forensic results and interrogations progress.
