CUSTODY DEATH QUESTIONED
>> BURI RAM: The family of a poacher who died in police custody after being detained for carrying carcasses and pelts of gaur in excess of 500 kilogrammes at the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary urged authorities to launch a probe into his death.
Relatives of Jamnong Kroaking, 39, yesterday held a press conference to demand justice for the man after he was pronounced dead at Buri Ram Hospital on April 9.
The move came after the poacher’s death certificate issued by the hospital indicated he died from spleen injuries and massive blood loss.
The causes of death contradict authorities’ report indicating that Jamnong had died suffering from severe abdominal pain potentially caused by heavy drinking and appetite loss.
“Jamnong should not have died in custody even though he deserved prosecution over his illegal act,” said Banthit Boonlom, the suspect’s relative.
He insisted the family would not hold a cremation ritual until they got justice.
The family later sent the man’s body to Srinagarind Hospital in Khon Kaen for another autopsy that found the causes of death matched those determined by Buri Ram Hospital.
They believe Jamnong’s death was caused by physical assault. They urged authorities to probe the issue to pursue legal action against those they believe to be behind the man’s death.
Jamnong was among two poachers who were apprehended at the sanctuary in Non Din Daeng district on April 9.
In a separate case, the family of a man detained at a military base in Narathiwat sought help from the Yala Muslim Lawyer Foundation on Friday after starting to suspect that the man was physically abused.
The family, accompanied by foundation chairman Aliisahoh, yesterday visited Sakareeya Chaedosama at the 46th Ranger Regiment in Muang district to examine his detention conditions after being given permission by military officers on Friday.
The move came after Mr Sakareeya’s wife visited him on Friday and noticed he looked exhausted.
The man told his wife he was physically assaulted by authorities who forced him to confess to a crime he did not commit. His wife later told his brother who sought help from the foundation.