A rider’s friend angrily punched the Director of the NACC’s investigation office and later gave information to police. The lawyer explained the act was driven by frustration and fear that justice would not be served. He admitted it was wrong and preparations are underway to bar him from attending the funeral to prevent a recurrence of violence.,
In the case of Mr. Jaron Maakrao, Director of the Investigation and Special Affairs Bureau at the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), who drove a pickup truck and hit Mr. Sornarin Nakongsi, a 43-year-old rider, causing his death on Bang Rak Noi elevated road in Mueang District, Nonthaburi Province. Initial tests showed Mr. Jaron had a blood alcohol level of 189 mg percent. Police detained him to press charges at Bang Sri Muang Police Station, but he was released on bail using his position. Later, a disturbance occurred when Mr. Jaron came to apologize and pay respects at Thung Khru Temple in Bangkok but was punched in the face by the victim’s friend as he was entering the temple hall, as previously reported.
At 1 p.m. on 30 May 2026, at Thung Khru Police Station, 26-year-old rider Thanat Bunmak (wearing a face-covering hood) accompanied by volunteer lawyer Taweesak Saiyot met with Police Colonel Chumphon Sinsiripong, Superintendent of Thung Khru Police Station, to express sincerity and readiness to cooperate with the legal process after punching Mr. Jaron Maakrao, Director of the Investigation and Special Affairs Bureau of the NACC, at Thung Khru Temple the previous evening.
Lawyer Taweesak said before meeting police that assault is illegal and punishable by imprisonment, unlike in the past. He is assisting with legal matters. The victim has not yet filed a complaint, but the opposing party’s lawyer has stated publicly that “every action has a price to pay.”
He added that when asked about Thanat’s motivation, Thanat said he had known the victim for some time as both worked as riders. Thanat followed the news from day one and felt frustrated that the other party was drunk driving and caused his friend’s death. Riders already face a tough life, and this incident added to that burden. Moreover, the driver appeared to try to flee, and being a high-ranking official, Thanat feared justice would not be served to the victim.
The lawyer further explained that Thanat is certainly guilty of assault, but he is only providing legal support and does not intend to contest the case. The initial charge will be assault, and if charged, Thanat is likely to confess citing frustration as the reason. It will then be up to the court’s discretion whether to show leniency or not.
After meeting police, Thanat and his lawyer left the interrogation room. Thanat revealed that he had known the victim for about one to two years through working as riders. The victim once helped him by paying for motorcycle repairs.
Thanat said he did not plan to punch the other party and did not know the person would come. When asked if he had heard that the victim’s relatives had informed attendees at the funeral that the other party would come and requested that no one confront him, Thanat said he was unaware of this.
He apologized and admitted fault for punching the other party and said he is willing to cover medical expenses. He expressed regret and apologized again, promising that if he meets the other party next time, he will be able to control his emotions.
The lawyer revealed that police have not yet filed charges today. However, Thanat feels remorseful and wants to apologize directly to the other party. They may arrange a meeting for an apology. Thanat will be prohibited from attending the funeral as Mr. Jaron continues to attend daily. The victim’s family fears that if both parties meet again, a similar incident might occur.
Reports indicate police have not charged Thanat yet because the victim has not filed a complaint. The suspect qualifies for assault charges, but the specific section applied will depend on the victim undergoing a medical examination and obtaining a medical certificate to support the charge decision.
