BANGKOK – A former Thai sub-district chief with powerful political connections has been sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating the cold-blooded murder of a police officer during a lavish dinner party.
The Criminal Court found 37-year-old Praween Chankhlai, also known as Kamnan Nok, guilty of ordering the execution of Police Major Sivakorn Saibua on September 6, 2023. The killing, which stemmed from a dispute over a police promotion, took place in front of several officers—some of whom were later jailed for failing to intervene.
Praween, a wealthy construction contractor from Nakhon Pathom, was known for his opulent lifestyle. A 25-million-baht Bentley was reportedly seen near the pool villa where the fatal shooting occurred.
According to prosecutors, Praween pressured Sivakorn to approve a promotion for his nephew. When the officer refused, Praween challenged him to a drinking contest—and lost. Humiliated, he stormed off, slamming his fist on the table. His aide, Thananchai Manmark, later asked, “What should I do?” Praween simply nodded, prompting Thananchai to open fire, killing Sivakorn and seriously injuring Police Lieutenant Colonel Wasin Panpee.
Thananchai fled but was fatally shot in a police standoff two days later in Kanchanaburi. Praween surrendered soon after.
The case exposed Praween’s deep ties to high-ranking politicians and police officials, as well as his influence through extravagant parties. The shocking murder led Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to launch a nationwide crackdown on local mafia figures.
While Praween’s wealth secured financial compensation for the victims’ families, the court ruled that justice required a life sentence.
The case has intensified concerns over the power of local political figures and systemic corruption, sparking renewed calls for reforms within Thailand’s law enforcement and political systems.
photo Bangkok post