BANGKOK: A police officer, who allegedly shot and killed his wife at a kindergarten, surrendered early on Thursday (Sept 10) after a standoff lasting more than 18 hours, with his son helping persuade him to leave the house.
Pol Sub Lt Thatsaphong Thongthatch, known as 'Muad O', a deputy inspector responsible for crime prevention and suppression at Bang Lamung Police Station, emerged unarmed after leaving his firearm inside.
Pol Col Sarawut Nuchanart, the station superintendent, said Thatsaphong surrendered peacefully at about 6.20am following repeated appeals from his son.
The victim, a teacher known as 'Ple', was shot at Nong Pla Lai’s municipal kindergarten on Sept 9. The municipality has closed the school on Sept 10 and 11 to protect pupils, teachers and staff.
Police had surrounded the house after the shooting late on the morning of Sept 9 and maintained the cordon throughout the night, relying primarily on negotiation.
Thatsaphong later made contact and agreed to let his son, Pol Sgt Rachata Thongthatch, known as 'Folk', speak to him again. The renewed talks came amid tension and fatigue among the operation team.
Rachata approached the house at 5.06am on Sept 10 and called out to his father. He and his heavily pregnant wife spent more than 40 minutes urging Thatsaphong to put down his weapon and surrender.
The officer initially remained inside without replying.
Police kept people not involved in the operation about 30 metres away from the property as a safety precaution. Police officers, administrative officials and rescue volunteers were deployed, with personnel on standby to provide assistance.
When Thatsaphong eventually walked out, Rachata continued to comfort him. The officer embraced his son and broke down in tears before police took him into custody.
Yotsaphong Sinthong, mayor of Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict Municipality, said emergency measures had been introduced to prevent further danger and loss following the shooting. - The Nation/ANN
