Justice Minister Confirms Soonthorn Vilawan Not Eligible for Jail Term Suspension
PUBLISHED: 21 Dec 2024 at 20:32
Soonthorn Vilawan, an 85-year-old political figure in Prachin Buri, has been ruled ineligible for a suspension of his jail term, according to the Justice Minister.
The Justice Minister stated that while Mr. Vilawan can seek medical treatment outside prison during his detention, he and his six associates are not eligible for suspension as they are still considered suspects in a serious crime.
Mr. Vilawan, a member of the Bhumjaithai Party and father of a former deputy education minister, is currently in custody in connection with the December 11 shooting of Chaimet Sitsanitpong, a provincial council member.
Mr. Vilawan is a veteran politician whose family has held significant power in Prachin Buri for decades. He presently serves as the chairman of the Prachin Buri Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO).
Chaimet, known locally as “Sor Jor Tong,” was discovered deceased with multiple gunshot wounds at Mr. Vilawan’s residence. Two co-suspects confessed to the shooting following a contentious debate, while Mr. Vilawan contends he was resting in his room at the time.
The incident is believed to be politically motivated, as Chaimet endorsed his wife, Napaphat Anchasanichamon, in her candidacy for president of the Prachin Buri PAO under the Pheu Thai Party.
The suspects, currently detained at Nakhon Nayok prison, face charges of premeditated murder and illegal possession of firearms. The Prachin Buri Provincial Court has denied bail due to the gravity of the accusations.
Authorities from the Crime Suppression Division plan to petition the court to transfer the suspects from Nakhon Nayok to Bangkok Remand Prison once the case is officially handed over to them.
