Nakhon Si Thammarat – Chaiyachana Dechadecho, Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, appeared at Thung Yai Police Station to acknowledge assault charges but denied all allegations, including slapping a Deputy Superintendent. He confirmed they remain on good terms, often joking and playfully pinching each other's ears when they meet. He protested being targeted by manipulated news aimed at political discredit.
This follows the viral social media and public page reports about the Deputy Superintendent of Investigation at Thung Yai Police Station being slapped by a former minister and local political heavyweight during a funeral of a local politician’s mother on 8 August 2026, raising questions about police dignity, as previously reported.
Latest developments as of noon on 13 August 2026: Chaiyachana Dechadecho, party-list MP and Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, and former Deputy Minister of Public Health, arrived at Thung Yai Police Station, Nakhon Si Thammarat, accompanied by lawyers and supporters, to turn himself in and acknowledge assault charges under Section 391, involving use of force without causing bodily or mental harm. This is a minor offense punishable by a fine up to 10,000 baht or imprisonment up to one month, and is a case that can be settled by mutual agreement.
Upon arrival, Chaiyachana and his lawyers met with Pol. Col. Pongpichan Chayanonpiriya, Chief of Thung Yai Police Station, and the investigating officers in a conference room. The charges were formally read, but Chaiyachana denied all allegations, stating that the opposing party is someone he has been close to for over 10 years and they have always joked around.
After completing the surrender process, Chaiyachana spoke outside the police station, saying the incident was misrepresented by local media aligned against him. He emphasized that his family and the Deputy Superintendent have maintained close relations for about 10 years, and that the reports have caused unnecessary division.
He further asserted that they even took photos together at the funeral and frequently teased each other by pinching ears when meeting.
“I don’t understand why such an incident occurred. I firmly deny any slapping or quarrel. This has damaged the reputation of both the police and local political institutions. Even my 12-year-old son messaged me, asking why his father and the Deputy Superintendent, who are close, filed complaints against each other,” Chaiyachana said.
Meanwhile, Pol. Col. Pongpichan Chayanonpiriya, Chief of Thung Yai Police Station, reiterated that the case is progressing step by step. Since yesterday, it has been accepted as a criminal case and is under legal procedure. He confirmed the incident did happen but said further details are part of the investigation file and cannot be disclosed. He assured that all actions are being conducted transparently and properly.
Reports also state that Chaiyachana affirmed he did not slap or harm anyone, and that he and Deputy Superintendent Toom have mutual respect and friendship. They have regular conversations and meetings. He is unsure how the news emerged and said those responsible for leaking or spreading the story should explain. He noted the story came out quickly and forcefully, referencing the incident as occurring on 8 August, yet they met again on 11 August at another funeral where the Deputy Superintendent greeted him and took family photos, as they are close relatives and friends with nothing unusual.
Chaiyachana also dismissed claims that the incident was due to lack of election support, saying their frequent interactions and teasing are normal among close acquaintances. He suggested the news might be politically motivated discredit but emphasized that politics should be based on presenting facts to the public rather than fabrications.
At the same time, Pol. Lt. Col. Thanongsak has remained silent, and reporters have been unable to contact him so far.