Police have charged Chalerm Riyawarang, former Nonthaburi MP, with four serious offenses after more than five hours of questioning. He denies the charges, claiming he fired in self-defense. Authorities then handcuffed him and placed him in custody, preparing to present him for court remand tomorrow.
On 10 Aug 2026 GMT+7, updates on the case of Chalerm Riyawarang, former Nonthaburi MP, who shot Police Colonel Thongchai Yenprasert, president of the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, resulting in the latter's death and the driver being injured earlier this morning, as previously reported.
At 16:50 GMT+7, officers from Rattanathibet Police Station took Chalerm into custody after over five hours of interrogation, with his personal lawyer present during the questioning.
Chalerm denied the charges, claiming the shooting was in self-defense after seeing the driver of the Nonthaburi PAO president draw a firearm first.
Following the interrogation, police charged Chalerm with four offenses: premeditated murder, attempted murder, carrying a firearm in public without proper cause, and discharging a firearm in public without proper cause.
Afterward, officers handcuffed Chalerm and detained him. He remained expressionless and did not make further comments.
Next, investigators will gather evidence and prepare the case file before presenting Chalerm for remand at Nonthaburi Provincial Court tomorrow. Police plan to oppose bail based on the case's circumstances and available evidence.
Reporters noted that forensic police inspected the black Volvo car, license plate Kas 88 Nonthaburi, belonging to Police Colonel Thongchai, Nonthaburi PAO president. They found two firearms inside: a Sig Sauer belonging to the driver and a Smith & Wesson belonging to Colonel Thongchai. Both were seized for case evidence. Two bullet holes were found inside the vehicle, and five 9mm shell casings were scattered around. Officers recreated the bullet trajectories from outside the car.
Rattanathibet Police in Nonthaburi sealed off the area around the Nonthaburi PAO office building, especially near the black Volvo that was Colonel Thongchai’s personal vehicle.
Nonthaburi Governor Chettha Mosikharat spoke about tightening security after a series of violent incidents in the province, including shootings at a school and the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization. He referenced the prime minister’s directive to enforce stricter weapon controls and intensify checkpoint operations.
When asked if stricter access controls at the Nonthaburi government complex would be implemented following the incident, Governor Chettha confirmed that enhanced measures would be enforced as ordered by the prime minister.
Asked about the need for a new election to replace the deceased PAO president, Governor Chettha said one will be held following legal procedures. The Election Commission will oversee the process due to the incumbent’s death.
Regarding speculation that the incident involved influential local figures, Governor Chettha stated that, as far as he knows, the case stems from a personal conflict, not political motives. Authorities are continuing their investigation.