Real Motive in Nonthaburi Governor's Death Wasn't Debt Dispute
Former Nonthaburi assemblyman Chalod Riangrang fatally shot provincial governor Pol. Maj. Thongchai Yenpraserit in August; investigators determined the motive was rejected financial support, not a claimed debt dispute.
On August 11, authorities reported progress in the case of Chalod Riangrang, former Nonthaburi provincial assemblyman, who used a firearm to fatally shoot Pol. Maj. Thongchai Yenpraserit, the provincial governor. While Chalod claimed the killing was over a 11-million-baht debt that Thongchai owed him, interviews with local political figures at all levels confirmed this account is false.
Investigators found that Thongchai, who served multiple terms as governor and was well-regarded in the community, had no known financial debts and maintained a trustworthy family and financial standing. In contrast, Chalod had lost his political influence over recent years, struggled financially, and had become isolated. For several years, Thongchai was Chalod's only reliable support, occasionally giving him 50,000 to 100,000 baht when requested.
However, when Chalod's requests became too frequent, Thongchai began distancing himself and eventually refused to see him. Investigators suggest this sudden withdrawal of support likely caused Chalod severe emotional distress, as if his last lifeline had been severed, prompting the fatal attack. Police have deployed 20 officers to guard Chalod in custody due to fears of retaliation, and a search of his home recovered over 50 bullets and 9 firearms, most of which had been sold. The court denied bail given the severity of charges and the violent nature of the crime.
