In a shocking turn of events, former Nonthaburi MP Chalong Reawraeng shot former police officer Thongchai Yenprasert in a dispute that escalated to violence. The shooting occurred outside Yenprasert’s office and left the officer dying from a neck wound, while Yenprasert’s driver was injured in the arm and hand.
After the incident, Reawraeng called political commentator Anchalee Paireerak, who was livestreaming on YouTube at the time. In the video, Anchalee was seen reacting with shock as the caller identified himself and confessed to the shooting.
Reawraeng appeared at a police station to explain the situation to reporters. He claimed he did not intend to shoot Yenprasert, describing him as a “good friend,” and said the dispute was personal. The former MP admitted he pulled his gun after Yenprasert’s driver pointed a weapon at him, though details remain contested.
Police officials detained Reawraeng on the same day. The incident follows Thailand’s worst mass shooting of 2022 and a recent school shooting that killed seven people, escalating calls for tighter gun controls. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has promised stricter enforcement and new checkpoints.
An investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances and to assess whether criminal charges will be filed. The event underscores persistent concerns over gun ownership in Southeast Asia and the need for comprehensive reform.
