A police inspector in Sakon Nakhon, Pol Lt Col Nanmanas Phosri, has been arrested for allegedly orchestrating a fatal car crash to claim a 14-million-baht insurance payout.
Nanmanas, an investigations officer at Wanon Niwat station, surrendered at his workplace on Wednesday but was immediately taken into custody under an arrest warrant.
The case came to light after insurance companies raised concerns over suspicious claims following the death of Wichian Jityen, 32, who was killed in a three-vehicle crash on Feb 10 in Wanon Niwat district.
Initially, three drivers—Somsak Wobao (56), Phornchanok Onsurathum (41), and Pheeraphat Raksakun (40)—were charged with reckless driving causing death. However, further investigations suggested the accident was staged. A fourth suspect, Sakon “Mek” Sonkaew (38), was arrested for colluding in murder.
During interrogation, the suspects implicated Pol Lt Col Nanmanas, leading to his arrest. The officer denies all charges.
Sakon Nakhon police chief Pol Maj Gen Somjit Laomongkolnitmit confirmed that the officer will be suspended pending further legal proceedings. Authorities have taken Nanmanas to court for detention as investigations continue.
