Harassed ex-reporter seeks police protection in Nakhon Sawan

A former reporter sought police protection, alleging harassment by a politician’s wife after testifying in a murder case in Nakhon Sawan. She now lives in fear with her elderly mother, seeking justice and safety.

The ex-journalist of a well-known newspaper, Benjasirin, approached Police Lieutenant Panupon Somrak at the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) to request an investigation into the harassment she claims to have faced. The 54 year old woman specifically pointed to the wife of a politician as the source of her distress.

In April 2022, a murder-suicide took place in Noen Khee Lek, Lat Yao, Nakhon Sawan, where a husband shot his wife before taking his own life. Benjasirin witnessed the village headman, an associate of the politician, calling out the victim’s name before gunshots were heard. She recorded the incident on her phone and later served as a witness in the investigation.

Believing the case might involve a third party, she presented her evidence. However, investigators and prosecutors ultimately concluded it was a domestic murder-suicide due to insufficient evidence. Following her testimony, the politician’s wife allegedly began a campaign of harassment.

Benjasirin described how the politician’s wife started targeting her and her family, who rented a commercial building in Noen Khee Lek. The wife threatened to terminate their lease, claiming she intended to sell the property. Furthermore, she allegedly made various disparaging remarks and sent people to spray insecticide around the building without prior notice, causing fear for their safety.

Living with her elderly mother, Benjasirin felt increasingly vulnerable and decided to report the ongoing harassment to the CSD. She had previously filed a complaint with the Lat Yao Police Station, but the case saw little progress.

“The harassment began after I testified in the case. The politician’s wife was unhappy with my involvement and started taking actions to intimidate me and my family. I fear for our safety, especially since I live with my elderly mother.”

The CSD has taken up the case and will present it to their superiors for further direction, reported KhaoSod.