Phuket murder suspect arrested after 3 years on the run

PHUKET: After three years on the run, a man wanted for a stabbing murder in Phuket Town in 2007 has been arrested by police in Phang Nga.

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pekad Tantipong, Deputy Commander Peerayut Karajedee and Phuket City Police Superintendent Wanchai Ekpornpit yesterday afternoon led a press conference to announce the arrest 26-year-old Tossaporn ‘Peh’ Jarunrak.

Mr Tossaporn was wanted for the May 7, 2007 stabbing of Samnao Tongsin.

The officers said Mr Tossaporn was at Taew Karaoke on Ong Sim Phai Road near Nimit Circle at 11:30pm that night, when Mr Samnao arrived on a motorbike and demanded money for an outstanding debt.

A violent argument ensued, ending with Mr Tossaporn allegedly stabbing Mr Samnao, who died at Vachira Phuket Hospital two days later.

An investigation by Phuket City Police led to an arrest warrant being issued for Mr Tossaporn in June last year.

He was arrested in Ban Bangmaruanat, Takuapa, by District Police there at 5:30pm on Thursday.

— Atchaa Khamlo