Death Sentence Pronounced for 'Am Cyanide': Chicken Rice Shop Witness Testimony Provides Clear Evidence

On February 20, 2026, the Criminal Court in Bangkok delivered a judgment in the case of Sorarat or 'Am Cyanide', charged with murder. Prosecutors alleged that on April 1, 2023, the defendant deliberately planned and poisoned Police Lieutenant Nipha Saen-chan with cyanide, mixed into food or drink, resulting in her death. The murder was reportedly motivated by covering up previous fraud committed by the defendant. Witnesses from a chicken rice shop testified that the victim and defendant met at the restaurant, where the defendant prepared drinks and food. After the victim left, she collapsed and died shortly after. Medical examination confirmed cyanide presence in her body. The defendant claimed innocence, suggesting she was elsewhere and was unfairly targeted by police, but evidence including phone records and surveillance footage contradicted her statement. Investigators found evidence that the defendant had purchased cyanide through a delivery service, with bank transfer records supporting the purchase. The court ultimately found her guilty of premeditated murder, initially sentencing her to death but later commuting the sentence to life imprisonment.