Thread: Family call for inquiry into soldier's 'suicide' case

Bangkok Post : Family call for inquiry into soldier's 'suicide' case

Family call for inquiry into soldier's 'suicide' case

• Published: 10/09/2011 at 12:00 AM
• Newspaper section: News

PHAYAO : The family of a soldier who allegedly committed suicide while serving in Yala province is demanding a probe into his death.

The body of Pvt Krisada Boonna was found on Tuesday in Yala's Than To district. The army told the family that he shot himself with an M16 rifle. His body arrived in Phayao on Thursday.

His wife Natthaya, joined by about 70 friends and neighbours, yesterday petitioned authorities for help at the Pong district office.

Mrs Natthaya said the family suspected foul play because details surrounding her husband's death do not add up.

There was no sign of any head injury. Details about where his body was found were also conflicting.

"One version said he was found dead in his bed but the other said he died in the forest.

"My husband was right-handed, but they claimed they found gunpowder on his left hand.

"He was scheduled to be relieved from military service next month. He was coming home. I think his family has the right to ask questions," she said.

Mrs Natthaya said if death by suicide is confirmed, her family will not be eligible for welfare benefits, with the exception of a 200,000 baht insurance pay-out.

The grieving widow also has an eight-month-old child to raise.

"My husband is dead and we have many questions about how exactly this happened. He served the country well and this is how he was treated? It isn't fair," she said.

Sarawut Worapong, Pong district chief, said he accepted the petition and would submit it to the provincial governor to take further action.

Phayao provincial authorities will work with those in Yala in seeking help for Mrs Natthaya's family.

Pvt Krisada was a recruit at Lampang-based Surasakmontri army camp before he was sent to serve at a special force unit in Than To district. He was to be relieved of duty on Oct 4.