A DOCTOR who was gunned down in a Phuket ''park 'n shoot'' killing today had a conviction for selling ecstasy tablets and a reputation for disputes in his personal life and business dealings, according to police.

Phuket-born Dr Somchai Wongbanteng, 42, was shot in the head at 12.15pm close to his self-named clinic in Phuket City.

The case had the hallmarks of a professional hit, except that pros rarely use saloon cars. Motorcycles are the preferred method of escape.

The doctor, who was unmarried, had just stepped out for lunch with his Burmese staff, Mai Jack.

Police were told the pair had just walked by a gold-tone saloon when the car door opened and a man emerged.

The man, who was not wearing sunglasses, shot the doctor in the head at close range then fired a second shot into the prostrate victim at close range.

There was a driver waiting in the car and the killer sped off quickly, police said.

The doctor's surgery, in Krabi Road, Phuket City, was quickly cordoned off as police moved in to investigate.

Police said Dr Somchai had a conviction for possession and sale of ecstasy in 2003.