Former Village Chief Arrested in Murder-for-Hire Case of Retired Officer; Police Oppose Bail Despite Suspect's Denial
A 73-year-old former village chief in Lopburi has been arrested as the alleged mastermind behind the murder-for-hire killing of a 71-year-old retired military officer shot dead while cycling in March, with police opposing bail due to eviden
On May 14, 2026, Pol. Lt. Gen. Yarayong Santipricha, commander of the Lopburi Provincial Police, arrived at Nong Muang Police Station in Lopburi to interrogate 73-year-old Winai (surname withheld), a former village chief, with his lawyer present. Winai was arrested by Region 1 Police Investigation Unit and Lopburi Provincial Police with a warrant from Lopburi Provincial Court (No. 116/2569) dated May 12, 2026, on charges of premeditated murder-for-hire. He was arrested at his residence in Chon Sai Deach Subdistrict, Nong Muang District, Lopburi Province.
The case stems from the shooting death of Pol. Aof. Sai Deach, known as Lieutenant Colonel Jod, a 71-year-old retired military officer, who was killed on March 6 while cycling home in Moo 4 Village, Chon Sai Deach Subdistrict, Nong Muang District, Lopburi Province.
Police previously arrested Niwat (surname withheld), 72, the alleged shooter. He has denied involvement, so police collected gunpowder residue evidence and CCTV footage while continuing to search for the motorcycle and weapon used. Police also arrested Kittikorn (surname withheld), 73, a lathe operator, who allegedly contacted Niwat to arrange the killing of Lieutenant Colonel Jod. Both suspects deny any involvement.
After gathering evidence, police obtained an arrest warrant for Winai, the alleged mastermind. The suspect appeared nervous and initially denied all charges. Pol. Lt. Gen. Yarayong revealed that investigators are currently questioning Winai and will petition the court to deny bail, citing the gravity of the crime, severe penalties, and concerns about potential witness tampering. Authorities believe they have sufficient evidence to prosecute all suspects involved. The motive for the killing is still under investigation.
