Hua Hin Soi 80 is renowned for its vibrant and energetic nightlife.
The Royal Thai Army has taken a significant step by appointing a military lawyer to oversee the police investigation into the tragic shooting of one of its intelligence officers at a Hua Hin bar. The bar in question remained open past the legal closing hours. Jakkrit Worakul, aged 34, is accused of fatally shooting SM1 Rojchanaphon Rojchanapanich inside a pub in the bustling nightlife area of Soi 80, just off Phetkasem Road in Hua Hin. The tragic incident left three others injured.
SM1 Rojchanaphon, an intelligence officer at the Infantry Regiment Centre in Pran Buri district of Prachuap Kiri Khan, was deeply respected, according to Lt Gen Arnuphab Sirimonthon, an army spokesperson.
Witnesses recounted a chilling narrative to police—one saw the military officer reach for a drink offered by a friend and, in the process, accidentally bump into a woman believed to be Mr. Jakkrit’s girlfriend. In an alarming response, Mr. Jakkrit allegedly shot the officer without uttering a word.
Following the incident, the suspect turned himself in the next day and was subsequently released on bail set at 500,000 baht.
According to Hua Hin Today, the Hua Hin police reported that Mr. Jakkrit had been dismissed from his advisory roles. The crime scene was alarmingly close—less than 500 meters—from the local police station.
Rojchanaphon’s family, accompanied by the activist Guntouch Pongpaiboonwet, also known as Gun Jom Phalang, visited the Hua Hin police station on Thursday to inquire about the ongoing investigation.
Mr. Guntouch expressed the family’s deep concern for their safety, citing the suspect’s close relationships with local law enforcement. The family has turned to the army and Mr. Guntouch for protection, fearing that justice might not be served.
“The pub is located not far from the Hua Hin police station. I wonder why the pub is still open at 4 a.m., which is past legal operating hours, and without local police officers noticing,” Mr. Guntouch questioned aloud.
He added, “I also want to understand how the pub allowed a customer to carry a pistol inside.”
Mr. Guntouch revealed that the family had requested a change in the police investigator from Provincial Police Division 7, following allegations that the security cameras inside the pub had been suspiciously removed.
Simultaneously, the army has extended a compassionate hand by providing the bereaved family with 50,000 baht as initial support.
This is so tragic and clearly shows the deep issues with law enforcement and accountability in Thailand.
Absolutely! The pub still being open past hours is already a red flag. Where were the police?
It’s not just about the pub. The bigger issue is how someone could carry a gun into such a place so easily.
Very true, David. It points to a bigger systemic failure. The military lawyer overseeing the investigation should shake things up.
Why does every incident have to be so politicized? Accidents happen!
This wasn’t just an accident. It was a fatal shooting! Are you serious?
It’s about justice and accountability, Timmy. There’s a clear negligence from law enforcement.
I wonder if there’s more to the relationship between the shooter and the victim.
Speculative but possible. There could be a deeper story here that we’re not privy to.
Exactly. Sometimes these incidents have hidden layers. The investigation needs to uncover that.
Appointing a military lawyer sounds like they’re trying to cover their own backs instead of ensuring an unbiased investigation.
The fact the suspect got bail at all is shocking to me. This guy shot someone without provocation!
Bail for such a serious charge is messed up. It makes one question the justice system’s integrity.
Exactly, Joe. There’s a clear conflict of interest, especially given his connections.
It just shows the disparities in the justice system. Power dynamics at play here.
The removal of security cameras inside the pub is deeply suspicious. Someone is tampering with evidence!
Absolutely. What possible explanation could there be for that? It’s obvious someone high up is involved.
Indeed. This whole case needs international attention to put pressure on local authorities.
It’s also noteworthy how quickly the suspect turned himself in. Was he trying to ‘control the narrative’?
Interesting point. Could be strategic to reduce backlash.
Makes sense. His connections may have advised him to do so to manipulate the situation.
I feel sorry for the family of the victim. They must be so scared considering the attacker’s connections.
The army’s involvement is both good and bad. They can protect the family but might also cover up details.
Could this incident affect Hua Hin’s reputation as a tourist destination?
It definitely could. Safety concerns always impact tourism negatively.
I still think we should reserve judgment until all the facts are out.
Sure, but the signs of corruption and negligence are hard to ignore.
I hope proper justice is served. The impunity in such cases often makes people lose faith in the system.