Shooting Suspect Faces Court, Fined for Smoking in Police Station

At 09:20 on August 11, 2569, at Rattanathibet Police Station, more than 10 armed S.W.A.T. officers—both uniformed and plainclothes—deployed four vehicles and two motorcycles with lead and tail escort units for strict security. Suspect Chaloem Riowraeng was escorted from the holding cell and placed in a bulletproof truck bound for Nonthaburi Provincial Court. When reporters asked if he had anything to say, he shook his head without responding. However, when asked if he was stressed and concerned about his daughter, he nodded in acknowledgment before being taken away, appearing anxious and forcing a smile. Investigators recommended denying him bail, citing the shocking nature of the offense and significant public interest.

Earlier in the morning, approximately 10 Public Health Ministry officials arrived at Rattanathibet Police Station to pursue charges against Chaloem related to the fatal shooting of Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization chairman Thongchai Yenpraserit. This action followed evidence of Chaloem smoking inside the police station on August 10, which violates regulations against smoking in government offices. The offense carries a maximum fine of 5,000 baht. After settlement negotiations, officials departed the station.

Dr. Yutthana Homket, a senior public health official, clarified that the action was taken based on clear photographic evidence. He emphasized that government facilities operate under the same smoking regulations as other locations and that enforcement is applied uniformly without discrimination. Violators face fines up to 5,000 baht, while the facility itself faces fines up to 3,000 baht. In this case, authorities issued the maximum penalties: 5,000 baht against Chaloem and 3,000 baht against the police station, totaling 8,000 baht. Yutthana noted that the Public Health Office of Nonthaburi Province has issued the fine notice and the responsible parties must proceed with payment.