Koh phangan: A British man has been remanded in custody by Koh Phangan police after being accused of seriously injuring Associate Professor Dr. Thirasak Kaewamornwong, a renowned medical lecturer, in a motorcycle incident. The police are opposing bail due to concerns that the suspect may attempt to flee the country.
According to Thai News Agency, the 51-year-old foreign national was detained following a collision with Dr. Kaewamornwong on the Koh Phangan-Thong Sala road. The incident, which occurred late on May 23rd, left the doctor in critical condition, necessitating emergency brain surgery in Bangkok. Key evidence in the investigation includes CCTV footage showing the suspect purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages shortly before the crash.
The investigation revealed that the suspect was intoxicated at the time of the incident. A subsequent urine test confirmed the presence of cocaine in his system. Moreover, he was found driving without a valid Thai or international license, and the motorcycle he was operating lacked necessary road tax and insurance.
Police have filed multiple charges against the suspect, including reckless driving causing serious injury, failing to assist the injured party, and driving under the influence of both alcohol and narcotics. However, the suspect has denied charges related to causing harm and fleeing the accident scene.
Investigators have taken the suspect to Koh Samui Provincial Court to request a remand order, emphasizing the severity of the charges and the suspect's lack of a fixed address in Thailand as reasons for denying bail. Concerns persist that the suspect, being a foreign national, could potentially escape jurisdiction.
The investigation is also expanding to include a probe into a company associated with the suspect. Authorities aim to determine whether the company is legally compliant with Thai regulations or if it is involved in any illicit activities on Koh Phangan. Should any illegal operations be discovered, further charges will be pursued.