Today's Updating Report
A WEALTHY ITALIAN expat has been shot dead near Phuket's Bang Pae waterfall, a popular spot for tourists. A hunt is beginning for ''several men'' seen leaving the scene in a white sedan.
Police believe the killing was related to a restaurant and bungalow business on the holiday island of Phi Phi. The man, in his 60s, divided his time between Phi Phi and Phuket.
However, the murder victim was also involved in an expensive divorce that was due to be finalised in a court cash settlement today.
The man had been shot three times - in the left chest, the lower left ribs, and the right collarbone - in what's believed to be a professional hit, an officer told Phuketwan. The skin had also been broken on his right wrist, as if in a fight. Other shots may have been fired.
Phuket Police Commander, Pekad Tantipong, went to the scene today to oversee the investigation by police from Thalang district, led by Lieutenant Colonel Sarit Bootnongsang.
The body was found 200 metres from the entrance to the waterfall about 10.30pm last night. A total of 22,000 baht was found on or near the man, who was wearing a red t-shirt and brown shorts.
A pink and white Honda Click with red plates was found nearby.
The victim had been staying at the Dara Hotel, a colorful landmark near Central Festival shopping centre in Phuket City, after divorce proceedings.
The man's Thai wife had asked for 12 million baht to help support the children, and the details of the financial settlement were to be finalised in court today, police said.
Although police have yet to find his passport, officers believe the man was a partner in a substantial ''restaurant and bungalow business'' on Phi Phi.
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RIP
What was this man doing at the waterfall entrance at that time of night? The road is a dead end and very quiet. Was there an arranged meeting?
Posted by Simon Luttrell on March 16, 2011 12:17