Khon Kaen: Police are offering a 5,000 baht reward for the capture of 'Moeng' after he assaulted his opponent with a stick, resulting in a broken neck, brain swelling, and critical injuries. Relatives of the victim fear he may not survive and are urging authorities to apprehend the suspect quickly, labeling him as dangerous.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident involves Mr. Boonthai, 59, from Kut Khao Subdistrict, Mancha Khiri District, who attacked Mr. Songrit, 52, from the same village. The assault left Mr. Songrit severely injured and lying in a pool of blood alongside the Khok Pho Chai-Mancha Khiri Road. The attack happened in the early hours of June 17, and Mr. Boonthai, also known as 'Moeng', fled the scene immediately.
Pol. Col. Thirat Phongsuwan, Superintendent of Manchakiri Police Station, reported receiving tips about Mr. Moeng's return to Khum Din Village. Authorities conducted extensive searches, including aerial drone inspections over forests, sugarcane, and cassava fields, but the suspect remains at large. Police, along with Village Defense Volunteers, are intensively searching for Mr. Moeng due to rising fears among villagers and students. Although he is not deemed a general threat, the attack was fueled by personal animosity towards the victim.
Mr. Moeng is suspected to be hiding in the vicinity of Khum Din village. Police have announced a 5,000 baht reward for information leading to his arrest and are calling on acquaintances and relatives not to assist him, warning against possible prosecution. Any sightings or information should be reported to community leaders, the police, or via the emergency number 191.
The victim's sister, 61, disclosed that her brother's condition remains critical. His neck and skull are fractured, and his body is swollen. Medical professionals have indicated there is no hope for recovery. Despite being a general laborer, there is no known involvement with drugs, as the siblings live in separate areas. The sister is pressing for the swift capture of the suspect, whom she describes as dangerous, with a history of inappropriate behavior. Her fear of encountering him has prevented her from working on her farm.