Police probing monk's murder eye former local politician
Udon Thani police have arrested a former local politician for his alleged involvement in the murder of a revered monk.
Wiwet Wichaiyo, a former head of a tambon municipality in Loei province, was released on bail after being charged with possessing firearms and ammunition.
Assistant police chief Pol Lt-General Panya Mamen said police found evidence that Wiwet was acquainted with a group of gunmen who shot dead Phra Bundit Supanthito on March 1. The proof was uncovered following a raid on Wiwet’s home on Wednesday, which also turned up the M-16 ammunition and equipment.
Some of the items found in Wiwet’s home were registered and others, like the M-16 bullets and magazines, were illegal, Panya said at a police press conference yesterday.
Wiwet denied playing any role in the murder but admitted to knowing a number of people whom police said were potentially involved, Panya added.
Udon Thai police are also carrying out a crackdown on criminal rackets and gun-for-hire cells. Three raids were conducted at three locations, which included the home of Wiwet and those of other people suspected of criminal activities.