“Leaking policeman’ case: two more arrested

PHUKET TOWN: Two more people involved in the robbing of an off-duty immigration police officer – who had stopped to take a leak on a football field – were arrested today. The first arrest in the case was made on Tuesday when Prathueng Intarachuenchom, one of two armed robbers, was found at the Phuket International Hospital where he was being treated after being shot by his victim, Pol Snr Sgt Maj Wichien Petphang-nga. Prathueng initially denied knowing anything about his partner-in-crime apart from a nickname, “Gai”. But after further questioning, he confessed that the partner was an employee of his, working in his furniture store. The employee, Bunkert Kongchana, 20, was arrested at a relative’s home in Karon. In his possession were items stolen from Sgt Maj Wichien. Outside the house was the robbers’ getaway pick-up truck. Prathueng also told investigators that he had left the gun and knife used in the robbery with his brother, Chokchai. Police officers visited Chokchai, who showed them where he had disposed of the weapons, which were recovered. Chokchai was arrested and charged with concealing evidence.