Former Krabi policeman confesses to killing Phuket officer

KRABI: A former Krabi police officer surrendered himself to police yesterday afternoon after shooting a Phuket police officer to death during an early-morning drinking session in Ao Luek.

According to witnesses, Sub Lt Kwanbavorn Thanasarn, 54, of the Tah Chat Chai Region 8 Police, was shot in the head and abdomen by retired Sgt Major Somsak Chumcheun while the pair were drinking at the former sergeant’s house.

“Neighbors managed to wrestle the gun from Sgt Maj Somsak after he randomly fired off more rounds. He then reportedly fled into a nearby palm plantation,” said Lt Panomporn Panmad of the Ao Luek Police.

Sub Lt Kwanbavorn was rushed to Krabi Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police recovered five bullets and eight bullet casings for a 9mm handgun at the scene.

According to locals, the two officers were friends and often socialized at the retired officer’s home.

Sgt Maj Somsak told officers that he had shot his friend while in a drunken state and felt deeply remorseful. Nonetheless, he was charged for the murder of Sub Lt Kwanbavorn.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong