Former Thai MP Shoots Official Dead Then Confesses Live on YouTube

A shocking crime unfolded in Thailand on Monday when former Nonthaburi MP Chalong Reawraeng allegedly shot and killed Thongchai Yenprasert, a former police official, outside Thongchai's office. Immediately after the shooting, Reawraeng called into a YouTube livestream hosted by political pundit Anchalee Paireerak and calmly announced what he had done, leaving the host visibly shocked.

Confession on Live Television

Thongchai, who was hit in the neck, was rushed to hospital but died from his injuries. His driver was also shot and wounded in the arm and hand. Reawraeng told the stunned host that he had shot Thongchai outside his office, delivering a matter-of-fact account of the killing to what witnesses describe as thousands of live viewers.

Press Conference at the Police Station

Reawraeng was subsequently arrested but in a highly unusual turn of events was allowed to hold a press conference at the police station. He attempted to explain the circumstances of the shooting while smoking a cigarette, an image that quickly went viral across social media platforms in Thailand and internationally. Police confirmed he was formally charged with premeditated murder.

Political Background and Reactions

The motive for the killing was not immediately clear. Reawraeng had previously served as a member of parliament for Nonthaburi province. Thai authorities called the incident unprecedented and pledged a thorough investigation. Legal experts noted that allowing the suspect to hold a press conference before formal proceedings raised questions about due process in the Thai justice system. The YouTube channel where the confession was broadcast saw a dramatic surge in followers after the clip was widely shared.