Kanman and Hmong leader injured in Chiang Rai ambush

The pickup truck of a well-known kamnan and Hmong leader in Chiang Rai was cut down in a hail of gunfire last evening (Tuesday), killing his wife and daughter and injuring him and his son.

Police said the attack happened at 5pm on Ban Rom Fah Thong-Ban Pha Tung Road in Ban Rom Fah Thong village, Tambon Por of Wiangkaen district in Chiang Rai province.

Thaweesak Yodmaneebanphot, who was driving his pickup with his wife, his son and daughter, is the chief of Tambon Por and president of the Hmong People Club of Thailand.

The attack happened when Thaweesak was driving home from his coffee plantation.

His pickup was riddled with bullets that also cut through the windshield and side windows. Police said 40 year old Yia Wongnaphapaisarn and 5 year old Chayaporn Yodmaneebanphot were killed in their seats. Thaweesak and 3 year old Chaimongkol Yodmaneebanphot were critically wounded and were rushed to the Chiang Rai hospital.

No motive for the attack has been determined at this stage but police are investigating a possible business conflict.

SOURCES: The Nation, The Thaiger