Chatchanan Paen-iam, 23, known as "Fluke", a suspect in the recent murders of two Russian sisters and a Thai family of three, has been placed under witness protection. Currently held separately at Najomtien police station in Sattahip, Chon Buri province, Chatchanan provided information suggesting the criminal group may be responsible for additional killings beyond the initial five victims.

Pol Col Pasakorn Paijit, head of the Chon Buri provincial police investigation unit, interrogated Chatchanan for over three hours. Authorities plan further questioning regarding other potential murder cases and individuals involved in loan sharking and debt collection activities, which are believed to be a motive for the Thai family's murder.

Chatchanan is one of four suspects apprehended in the case, which police are investigating as a series of murders. Thana "Pong" Kerdthong, 43, and Thongchai "Thong" Srinil, 39, were arrested in Sa Kaeo province on 31/7. Thana faces accusations of murdering Diana Nazimova, 22, Roman Nazimova, 17, and the Thai family, comprising the parents and their 18-year-old daughter. He is also accused of raping the daughter.

According to the Thai Department of Corrections, Thana had previously served 7 years, 7 months, and 25 days for attempted murder, along with firearm and drug offenses, before being released on 5/6. The fourth suspect in the case is Atsadang Chuwong, 25. All suspects face charges including premeditated murder, concealing bodies, rape, robbery, and illegal possession of weapons and explosives.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul (light blue shirt) and police at the crime scene. Photo: Royal Thai Police

On 2/8, the Chon Buri Provincial Police issued an apology to the families of the three Thai victims for the lack of regular updates on the investigation. This apology came after relatives reported receiving minimal information since filing a missing persons report on 27/6. They only learned their loved ones had been murdered and buried in the forest through the ongoing investigation into the Russian sisters' case. Police affirmed their commitment to bringing those responsible to justice.

Source: Tue Anh, via Bangkok Post