A former school director has killed himself after shooting dead his ex-wife, her new husband, her mother and her brother-in-law in northeaster Thailand. Police in northeaster Thailand’s Si Sa Ket province were summoned to a home after a wild attack occurred.
Police and emergency responders found two people shot dead in front of the house and two other bodies inside. The house belonged to Ms Duangduan Kokaphan, 41, the director of Non Ipang Phonwua School who was among those found dead.
The three other victims were Duangduan’s new lawyer husband Poramat Saman, 39, her mother Yokmanee Kokaphan, 66 and Mrs Yokmanee’s brother-in-law Bunluen Apaiphong, 61.
A 10-year-old boy also in the house fled to safety, calling for help from neighbours and then the police.
The 10-year-old boy identified the gunman as Pathaphee Meebang, 42, he was the former, resigned director of Phanomrung School in Buri Ram and Duangduan’s former husband.
Police said the murders were probably motivated by jealousy. Police were still questioning relatives of the victims.
Relatives told police that Ms Duangduan had remarried just two months ago. and her ex-husband Mr Pathaphee (the shooter) had claimed ownership of the house. He allegedly threatened to kill Ms Duangduan and her family if they did not move out of the house.
Police then launched a man hunt for Mr Pathaphee, his Honda City car was spotted on a road traffic cam in Buri Ram province. and traffic police were radioed to intercept.
Pol Col Wissanu Arphonpong, chief of Prakhon Chai police station in Buri Ram said at about 11.30pm on Monday, police spotted the suspect on a secondary road in tambon Paisarn in Prakhon Chai district.
They gave chase, signalling for him to stop however he sped off. At Pinthong intersection in tambon Paisarn, his car was stopped by police and he was ordered to step out of the vehicle.
About a minute later, a gunshot was heard inside the car. Police rushed to check and found the driver was dead. He had shot himself with a shotgun, Thai Media reported.
Male jealousy in Thailand
Male jealousy in Thailand often stems from cultural and social dynamics that shape relationships and personal behavior. In Thai culture, social harmony and respect are highly valued, but this doesn’t eliminate the presence of jealousy.
Many Thai men may experience jealousy due to deep-rooted beliefs about gender roles and societal expectations. Traditional views often hold that men should be the primary providers and protectors, which can make them more possessive in relationships.
Social media adds fuel to the fire, providing platforms where partners’ interactions with others can be closely monitored, sparking insecurities. The fear of losing face, or social standing, also plays a role.
Being publicly seen as unable to control or maintain a relationship can be particularly distressing. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on loyalty and fidelity, making any perceived threat a significant issue.
Couples often navigate these feelings through open communication and mutual respect to maintain harmony.
However, when jealousy turns severe, it can lead to conflicts or even abusive behavior, underscoring the need for emotional intelligence and maturity within relationships.
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Geoff Thomas is an award winning journalist known for his sharp insights and no-nonsense reporting style. Over the years he has worked for Reuters and the Canadian Press covering everything from political scandals to human interest stories. He brings a clear and direct approach to his work.
