SURAT THANI, Thailand – A dispute between former business partners in a tattoo shop turned deadly on Koh Tao on Thursday when a 40-year-old man allegedly attacked a 63-year-old man with a knife at a curry-and-rice shop before attempting to flee the island. Police from Koh Tao Police Station were alerted to a fight involving a knife at a curry-and-rice shop along the road between Boonsiri Pier and Lompraya Pier in Moo 2, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan district, at around midday on Sept.3.
Police led by Pol Col Sarayut Buriwachira, superintendent of Koh Tao Police Station, went to the scene and found a large amount of blood on the ground in front of the shop. The injured man, identified as 63-year-old Sorachai, was given emergency assistance before being taken to Koh Tao Hospital. Police learned that the alleged attacker was 40-year-old Jirasak, also known by the nickname Golf. The two men reportedly had a longstanding dispute stemming from their involvement as business partners in a tattoo shop.
According to initial reports, the two happened to meet at the curry-and-rice shop and began arguing. Jirasak allegedly took a knife from inside the shop and attacked Sorachai several times, seriously injuring him. The incident reportedly unfolded in front of tourists and local residents, who were shocked by the violent confrontation.
After the attack, Jirasak allegedly fled towards Lompraya Pier and attempted to leave Koh Tao for Chumphon. Police were alerted to the escape attempt and intercepted him at the pier before he could leave the island. Sorachai later died at Koh Tao Hospital. Police reported that he had suffered wounds to his neck, shoulder and the area beneath his rib cage. Jirasak was taken into police custody and is being processed for legal action. Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal attack and the dispute between the two men. (Story, Photo: Khaosod)
