Kathmandu— A former Thai lawmaker was arrested Monday after allegedly fatally shooting a local politician outside Bangkok. Chalong Riewraeng, identified as the suspect, reportedly confronted Thongchai Yenprasert, chairman of the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, regarding a long-standing debt. The incident occurred at a government office and resulted in Yenprasert’s death and injuries to his driver; Chalong confessed to firing his weapon after an argument escalated.

Confession and Account of Events

Following the shooting, Chalong Riewraeng spoke with reporters while surrounded by police. He stated he had attempted to discuss the outstanding debt with Thongchai Yenprasert, following him to his car in an attempt to speak. According to Chalong’s account, when Yenprasert refused to engage, he confronted him and a physical altercation ensued. The suspect claimed he fired after Yenprasert's driver brandished a firearm.

Victim and Driver Condition

Thongchai Yenprasert was pronounced dead from his injuries at Phra Nang Klao hospital, according to director Sakon Sukprom. His driver also sustained gunshot wounds but underwent successful surgery. Police have characterized the shooting as stemming from a “personal issue” related to a financial dispute.

Government Response and Gun Control Debate

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that authorities will pursue “full legal action” against Chalong Riewraeng, emphasizing that no one other than on-duty officials is permitted to carry firearms in public. He noted that gun licenses issued three years prior had expired after a one-year validity period. The shooting has reignited the debate over Thailand’s gun control laws, which currently lack mental health screenings and allow individuals as young as 20 to possess weapons. Charnvirakul reiterated his intention to tighten these regulations.

Recent History of Gun Violence

This incident follows closely on the heels of a mass shooting earlier this month at Debsirin Nonthaburi School, where a 14-year-old gunman killed nine people and injured over twenty. That event marked Thailand’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly four years. A 2017 estimate by the Small Arms Survey indicated that Thailand had approximately 15 guns per 100 residents – the highest rate in Southeast Asia.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and prepare for legal proceedings against Chalong Riewraeng, as the country grapples with ongoing concerns about gun violence.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.