Phuket governor attends funeral of police chase victims

PHUKET: Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada attended the funeral of the two suspected drug dealers who were killed in a police chase that sparked the Phuket riot earlier this month (story here).

Numerous government officials and police officers joined Governor Chamroen at the ceremony for Patomwat Panarak, 22, and Teerapong Srisamut, 17.

“I am deeply sorry for this loss of life. We never wanted to see anything like this happen,” Gov Chamroen said. “We pray these two men will rest in peace.”

The Governor went on to ask that the public refrain from using social media platforms to spread rumors about further protests and riots.

“Please stop. These rumors hurt both sides,” he said. “If you have a problem, please file a complaint with the Damrongdhama Center [ombudsman’s office] or directly to me.”

Mr Patomwat and Mr Teerapong are to be cremated on Monday.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong