Koh Samui –
On May 26th, relatives of 31-year-old taxi driver Mr. Sikhirin Phromcharoen filed a petition for justice after he was brutally attacked and shot dead by a group according to them of so-called “black-plate taxi mafia” operating in Koh Samui, Surat Thani.
Sikhirin, known for his generosity and community spirit, often offered free rides to pregnant women, the elderly, people with disabilities, and the poor.
The fatal assault occurred in the early hours of May 24th, when Sikhirin was ambushed, beaten, and shot multiple times. His family, fearing retaliation from the alleged influential group behind the attack, fled Surat Thani with more than ten relatives, including his wife and children.
The victim’s body remains at the hospital, as relatives are too afraid to claim it for religious rites. His widow, Orchuma, stated that she came forward to demand justice because she does not want her husband’s death to go unpunished. She explained that the conflict stemmed from long-standing disputes over passenger pick-up areas, with the so-called gang accusing Sikhirin of encroaching on their claimed territory.
On May 28th, Deputy Inspector General of Police Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Piwpan, serving as spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, announced significant progress in the investigation into the fatal shooting of a taxi driver.
Authorities have identified eight suspects linked to the attack. Warrants have already been issued for three individuals, with one, Mr. Jatupol, now in custody. Based on newly gathered evidence, police are preparing to issue arrest warrants for five additional suspects, aiming to bring all of them to justice.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong explained that the Royal Thai Police are prioritizing witness protection measures. Surat Thani Provincial Police will also meet with the Department of Rights and Liberties Protection to coordinate under the Witness Protection Act, ensuring maximum safety for those involved in the case.
The police spokesperson firmly rejected the notion of mafia influence in Koh Samui, declaring:
“The Royal Thai Police will never allow influential groups or mafia gangs to cause suffering for the public. No matter who the offenders are, police will pursue charges decisively and transparently.”
This assurance is intended to restore public confidence and reassure both residents and tourists that law enforcement will act decisively against organized crime and intimidation in Thailand’s popular tourist destinations.
