Koh lanta: The investigation police of Koh Lanta Police Station, Krabi Province, along with local government officials, are urgently mobilizing forces to track down a gunman who shot and killed a neighbor and his daughter following a dispute over birds.
According to Thai News Agency, the shocking incident occurred in Koh Lanta Noi Subdistrict, Koh Lanta District, Krabi Province. A young man, identified as Mr. Wiwat, 41, allegedly used a firearm to kill Mr. Apiwat, 37, the owner of a house, and his 1-year-old daughter, Ms. Nicharin. During the attack, Mr. Apiwat's wife, Ms. Sudarat, sustained an injury to her right arm. Following the incident, Mr. Wiwat fled the scene on a black and blue Yamaha motorcycle registered in Krabi.
The dispute reportedly stemmed from a quarrel over a parakeet. A few days prior, a parakeet owned by Mr. Wiwat escaped. Unaware of its ownership, a villager caught the bird and sold it to Mr. Apiwat. Upon discovering this, Mr. Wiwat confronted Mr. Apiwat, leading to an argument. The confrontation escalated when Mr. Wiwat allegedly shot Mr. Apiwat as he was unlocking the door to his house on the morning of the incident.
Efforts to apprehend Mr. Wiwat have been ongoing, with the investigation team, assisted by administrative officers, conducting continuous searches in areas where he might be hiding, such as local mountains and huts within nearby rubber plantations. Despite these efforts, Mr. Wiwat remains at large. Authorities have been advised to exercise caution due to the suspect being armed.
Checks of the population register revealed that Mr. Wiwat had not obtained a citizen ID card and was in the process of registration with the Department of Provincial Administration. Records indicated a local birth and a history of drug-related activities. An arrest warrant is being pursued and is expected to be issued today.