PM Urges Media to Avoid 'Tourist' Label in Russian Murder Case
Prime Minister Anuthon Charnvirakul urged media outlets not to label the five murder victims in Chachoengsao as tourists, noting the two Russians had lived in Thailand for seven years, while police investigate links between the killings and
Prime Minister AnuthIn Charnvirakul made the appeal on August 1 after reviewing a summary of the five-victim murder case in Banglamung district, Chachoengsao province. He confirmed that evidence is clear and sufficient to prosecute the main defendants and their accomplices, ordering police to conduct a thorough investigation while closing all legal loopholes and expanding the inquiry into drug trafficking networks and related crimes.
Two main suspects have been arrested, with several accomplices also apprehended. Authorities have preliminarily linked the murders of the two Russian siblings to the killing of a Thai family of three, totaling five victims. Police are expanding the investigation as they believe the suspects may be connected to additional crimes involving drugs and other illegal activities.
The PM requested media cooperation in reporting the case, specifically asking outlets not to describe the victims as tourists. The Russian siblings had lived in Thailand for over seven years, regularly traveled in and out of the country, and maintained a life with their family here—not as newly arrived tourists, he noted.
"Thailand remains safe for both Thai citizens and foreigners. This incident represents the actions of a brutal criminal group and does not reflect the overall security situation of the country," AnuthIn said. He apologized to the Russian victims' families and to the Russian people, reaffirming that prosecution will be pursued to the maximum extent with no bail allowed.
National Police Commander Pol. Gen. Kittrat Panpetch revealed that the main suspect has a drug-related criminal history and previous prison time. Upon release, he maintained contact with former inmates, some of whom assisted with his escape and supported the crimes. Police are investigating the network while examining missing persons cases in the area before and after the suspect's release to determine if there are connections to other incidents.
The police commander said he will coordinate with the Department of Corrections to develop a system for monitoring high-risk released prisoners and will tighten controls on the sale of uniforms and equipment that could be misused to impersonate officials through online channels.
Regarding tourism impact, police affirmed the incident is unlikely to damage confidence since the Russian victims were not tourists but long-term residents. They pledged to strengthen security measures for both tourists and the public.
