Policeman accused of Koh Kaew shooting gets promoted

KRABI: The Phuket Provincial Police officer accused of the shooting death of Koh Kaew teenager-Worawut Samarnmit, which sparked a mob and a four-hour blockade of Thepkrasattri Rd on April 18, has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major.

Following the incident, which is still under investigation, Sgt Prasarn Chuayman was transferred to Krabi.

On Monday he was promoted.

Sgt Major Prasarn is under investigation for the shooting of K. Worawut, who was allegedly evading police who had signaled him to stop his motorbike.

The officer allegedly fired his gun in the direction of K. Worawut and his friends on their motorbikes. K. Worawut was hit and later died from his wounds. (Click here for full story.)

Phuket City Police Station Superintendent Col Nos Sawetalek said the promotion was requested before the shooting incident.

“The promotion was applied for about six months ago, but because the process took so long we received the approval only recently and the award giving ceremony was held after that,” Col Nos said.

“We are still investigating this case and if Sgt Maj Prasarn is found guilty, he will be punished,” he added.

Yongyuth Samarnmit, K. Worawut’s father, told the Gazette that he and his family are still waiting to hear the results of the investigation.

“More than a month has passed. We are still sad, and still waiting for justice in this case,” he said.