Pattaya Police Chief Visits Shot Journalist

January 12, 2024

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Pattaya —

Pattaya police chief Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawit visited local journalist Natthapat Buncharee, 28, at his residence today, January 12th, 2024, to check on his recovery following a shooting attack.

Natthapat, known by his nickname “Ing,” was shot in the face early on December 13th near an entertainment venue in Pattaya in what Pattaya police initially described as a road rage incident.

The prime suspect, identified as Kwanchai Pantong, 32, a resident of Chonburi, shot Natthapat with a homemade shotgun, causing serious injuries. Although his initial condition has improved, Natthapat is still suffering from lost sight in both eyes and struggles with speech. He is currently recovering at his residence while awaiting further treatment and monitoring of his vision.

According to reports, Natthapat expressed concerns about the incident’s impact on his life, particularly the forced break from work, which affects his family’s income. Natthapat had worked as a freelance journalist, working with his father, who is also a journalist, and providing news to local media, including The Pattaya News.

Nevertheless, Pol. Col. Nawin assured Natthapat and his family that the investigation is progressing into if other people were involved in the shooting and if there was an underlying reason for the shooting, perhaps tied to Ing’s journalism. Police are currently collecting witness statements and awaiting forensic test results. They expect to conclude the case within this month. Meanwhile, the main suspect remains detained at Pattaya Remand Prison.

TPN notes that the pictures in this article have been published with the consent of the victim’s father, who works with The Pattaya News and other local media providing news stories.