Thanakrit led the DSI, ONCB, and Provincial Police Region 2 investigators to meet with the widow of Phuyai Kai, the former mayor of Huay Yai who was shot dead 20 years ago, seeking crucial information before the case expires in three months. The case is suspected to be linked to the influential gang led by Pong.
On 10 Aug 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that after Major Dr. Thanakrit Jitarirattana, former secretary to the Minister of Justice, appeared on the “Open Confession” program on Thairath TV, last week regarding the “Pong 5 Victims” case, which may be connected to the murder of Anon Intasing, known locally as “Phuyai Kai,” the mayor of Huay Yai 20 years ago. His widow suspects involvement of a drug gang including Mr. Pong. During that broadcast, Phuyai Kai’s widow phoned in to request help from Dr. Thanakrit, who later petitioned the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for assistance.
Today, Dr. Thanakrit, together with Pol. Col. Warawut Charoenchon, Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 2 Investigations; Air Force Lt. Kittikom Kongsomphot, Director of DSI Special Operations Center Region 2; Mr. Suradet Latehsan, Director of ONCB Law Enforcement Region 2; and Pol. Lt. Chokchai Thodama from Provincial Police Region 2 Command, visited Mrs. Somsri Intasing, widow of Phuyai Kai, to request information that she suspects is the motive behind his death.
In providing information, Mrs. Somsri described the period before Phuyai Kai was shot, stating he had been aggressively suppressing drug gangs in Huay Yai and knew the identities of those involved. This led the gang leaders to hastily assassinate him. She believes Mr. Pong was merely a runner for this gang and possibly one of the shooters on that day, as eyewitnesses near the scene saw at least five young shooters. At that time, Mr. Pong was 23 years old.
After giving information, Mrs. Somsri handed over some evidence and expressed that although her husband died 20 years ago and she somewhat understood the cause, she has lived in fear ever since. Today, she feels reassured and confident that Dr. Thanakrit, DSI, ONCB, and the Provincial Police Region 2 investigation team will uncover the truth behind the crime in Huay Yai.
After receiving information and evidence from Mrs. Somsri, Major Dr. Thanakrit and representatives from the three agencies confirmed they will follow up on the Phuyai Kai murder case before its expiration in three months and expedite efforts to make Huay Yai a safe area free from influential groups causing distress and fear to residents.
Major Dr. Thanakrit Jitarirattana revealed that he is collaborating with the DSI, Provincial Police Region 2, and ONCB Region 2 to urgently investigate the facts surrounding Phuyai Kai’s death, expand the probe into possible drug-related connections, and examine financial trails and influential networks in the area. He affirmed that all agencies will integrate efforts to seriously combat crime and drugs in Huay Yai under the "Rooting Out Criminals" approach and will accelerate tangible results to prevent serious crimes from recurring.
Additionally, discussions with Ministry of Justice executives have been held to intensify drug crackdowns in the area, with a warning to involved parties: “If you do not cease your offenses, the end will be entering the justice system and prison — the penitentiary awaits.”
Residents with information or concerns can report via the ONCB hotline 1386, with assurance that their identities will be kept confidential.
Regarding the Phuyai Kai case, Major Dr. Thanakrit said progress is advancing, with important documents about individuals potentially involved now in hand for further official examination. He advised those possibly involved to prepare for scrutiny, as authorities will pursue the law fully.