Defendants Deny Murder, Rape of Russian Siblings in Pattaya Court
Two men accused of robbing, raping, and murdering two Russian siblings in Chonburi province appeared in Pattaya court, where they denied the most serious charges of premeditated murder and rape. Both confessed to lesser offenses including firearms violations, impersonating police, and concealing the victims' bodies. The judge denied bail and scheduled a rights protection hearing for October 20, 2026.
During the plea hearing, the court brought both defendants before the judge, with prosecutors and defense lawyers present. After reading the charges, the defendants gave their statements. Both confessed to charges involving firearms, ammunition, explosives, impersonating officials, unlawful detention, and jointly hiding, moving, or destroying corpses to conceal the deaths. They also admitted to the charge of joint nighttime robbery by posing as police officers, wearing police uniforms, using firearms, and employing a vehicle in the commission of the offense that resulted in death. However, regarding the accusation of premeditated murder, both defendants denied the claim, while on the rape charge, Thana (Pong) Koetthong denied responsibility, but his accomplice Thongchai (Thong) confessed. Because the defendants still denied some charges, the court ordered the case to proceed to a rights protection hearing and denied temporary release, citing the severity of the offense, the defendants' conduct, the prosecutor's objection, and concerns that they might flee, tamper with evidence, or cause further harm. The next court date is set for October 20, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. to begin the rights protection process before continuing with the remaining contested charges.
