Police have arrested a Thai man, Boonhai, and his son in connection with the murder of a 52-year-old woman named Prathum at a rubber plantation in Songkhla province. The incident occurred in the Saba Yoi district, with Prathum’s body discovered early on June 8.
Prathum was found with two severe cut wounds to the head near rubber trees. An autopsy was performed at Songklanagarind Hospital before her body was released for funeral arrangements.
Her son, Pornthep, was the first to discover the body. He told Channel 7 that his mother had gone into the plantation accompanied by her boyfriend, 51-year-old Boonhai, and Boonhai’s 26-year-old son, Chaiyaphruek.
Pornthep explained he had been preparing to help his mother by sharpening a knife. After finishing, he rode his motorcycle into the plantation and met Boonhai and Chaiyaphruek, who appeared agitated and warned him to stay away. Though initially he complied, his concern led him to return later, only to find his mother’s lifeless body.
Near the scene, a knife and other farming tools were found. Pornthep mentioned that his mother had been involved in a dispute with Boonhai, which he believed might have contributed to the murder, though he did not elaborate on the details.
Prathum and Boonhai had been in a relationship for about three years. Boonhai had lived in the province for over 15 years, while his son had joined him three to four months before the incident.
Following evidence gathered at the scene and CCTV footage showing the suspects fleeing on a green Kawasaki motorcycle, police issued arrest warrants for Boonhai and his son on charges of intentional murder.
Songkhla rescue volunteer Yai Rescue confirmed on Facebook that both suspects had been arrested and were undergoing police interrogation. Further details of the investigation have not yet been made public.
