PRACHINBURI — Violence erupted in Thailand’s local politics once again as a prominent figure was fatally shot at the residence of a powerful political family in Prachinburi Province on December 11. The incident appears to be linked to conflicts within the influential local political dynasty known as “Baan Yai” (Big House).
Chaimest Sittisanitpong, 48, better known as “Sor Jor Tong,” was found dead from gunshot wounds at the mansion belonging to Sunthon Wilawan, 85, the current chairman of Prachinburi Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), and his daughter Kanokwan Wilawan, a former Deputy Education Minister under the Prayut Chan-o-cha government. Both Wilawans are members of the Bhumjaithai Party.
Police responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 8:20 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the victim’s body at the top of a second-floor staircase. More than 10 bullet casings were scattered along the stairs. Two weapons were recovered at the scene: a 9mm Canik pistol and a shotgun.
The shooting occurred following a heated meeting to discuss potential candidates for the upcoming PAO council election. According to witnesses, Sor Jor Tong, who was Sunthon’s adopted son and right-hand man, as well as a well-known boxing promoter, left the meeting after disagreements arose but later returned. Shortly after, multiple gunshots were heard.
Police have detained seven suspects, including Thanasarankorn (Golf) and Saksit (Toon), along with Sunthon Wilawan himself. Initial investigations suggest the shooting stemmed from an intense argument over PAO candidate selection.
The Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) leadership positions – both the chairmanship and council memberships – holds significant power in local politics, wielding extensive control over budgets, tax collection, and project implementation. The position also commands considerable respect and influence among provincial residents.
Sor Jor Tong had previously faced legal troubles, having been prosecuted for bid rigging in provincial construction projects, though the court ultimately dismissed those charges in 2014. Sunthon himself had faced legal scrutiny over allegations of assisting government officials in illegally issuing land titles within Khao Yai National Park boundaries. That case expired under the statute of limitations in 2022 after he failed to appear in court.
Police Lieutenant General Yingyot Thepjamnong, acting commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, who was personally assigned to oversee the case by the National Police Chief, stated, “We have the situation under control.
All suspects and witnesses are being questioned at the Mueang Prachinburi Police Station. While preliminary findings point to local political conflicts, we are investigating all possible angles. This case will be handled strictly according to the law, regardless of the suspects’ status or influence.”
Forensic teams are currently examining the crime scene and weapons. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities promising a thorough and impartial inquiry into this latest instance of violence in Thailand’s local political arena.
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