Police have promised unhindered justice in their investigation into the death of Phattharathon “King” Jirachokchaikul, a 41-year-old cannabis shop owner shot by a drunk police sub-lieutenant in Pattaya on Sunday.
“Whoever is guilty will be punished according to the full extent of the law. The police will handle this case thoroughly,” Pol Col Anek Srathongyu, Pattaya police superintendent, told the victim’s family.
The incident occurred behind a cannabis shop on Walking Street when an officer, identified only as Pol Sub-Lt Jirasak, who was reportedly drunk, opened fire. Pol Sub-Lt Jirasak, 54, a recent police cadet graduate and member of Pattaya City Police’s investigative unit, has been charged with murder, illegal use of firearms in public, and carrying a weapon without reasonable cause.
A disciplinary committee has also ordered his dismissal from the service. The Pattaya Court denied bail despite relatives offering 500,000 baht, and he has been remanded in custody.
On Tuesday, Phattharathon’s family held a bathing ceremony for the body at a temple in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, with funeral rites scheduled nightly until Saturday, and cremation on the following day. During the bathing ceremony, Pol Col Anek apologised to the victim’s 67-year-old mother.
Mrs At said her son was hardworking, honest, and never engaged in substance abuse.
Pol Col Anek pledged full support to the family, including covering funeral expenses, and assured them the case would proceed transparently.