PATTAYA, Thailand – Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scenes linked to two high-profile murder cases in east Pattaya, Banglamung District on August 1, pledging that authorities would pursue the cases to the fullest extent of the law and rejecting any moves to reduce punishment for those responsible for violent crimes. The visit followed the discovery of two bodies belonging to Russian tourists and a separate case involving three family members found dead in the same area. PM Anutin was accompanied by National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet and Chonburi Governor Naris Niramaiwong during the inspection of the crime scenes.
The delegation arrived by helicopter at the Viharn Sien helipad before travelling to the first location in the Sak Ngaew forest area, where police officers and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue officials briefed the Prime Minister on the discovery and the progress of the investigation.
The group then moved to a coconut plantation approximately two kilometres away, where the bodies of the three family members were found. Officials provided further details on the investigation and evidence gathered so far. Following the inspection, PM Anutin said the government would not support reduced sentences for offenders involved in brutal crimes that damage public confidence and affect Thailand’s image among residents and international visitors.
He instructed relevant agencies to strengthen crime prevention measures, improve security monitoring, and increase patrols in vulnerable areas to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Prime Minister expressed condolences to the families of those killed and apologised to Russian visitors and the public, stressing that the incidents were the actions of individual criminal groups rather than a reflection of Thailand’s overall safety situation. He said authorities would continue searching for any additional suspects involved and ensure that all offenders face legal consequences.
Regarding concerns over repeat offenders who had previously served prison terms before allegedly committing new crimes, PM Anutin said law enforcement procedures must be reviewed and investigation files must be prepared thoroughly so courts have complete information when considering punishment.
Responding to public calls for the death penalty, the Prime Minister said capital punishment remains part of Thai law, but sentencing decisions belong to the courts. The government’s responsibility is to ensure evidence is properly collected and legal proceedings are carried out fully. After visiting the sites, PM Anutin travelled to Huai Yai Police Station to receive a briefing on the investigation into the five-death case, involving suspects including Thanathip “Pong” and others. He also followed updates on arrests and further developments in the investigation. I can also make this into a shorter Pattaya Mail front-page style version with a sharper crime angle if needed.
