Nonthaburi: Chalong Riangrang, a former Member of Parliament for Nonthaburi, asserted that he had no intention of killing during a recent shooting incident, claiming self-defense after the driver involved allegedly brandished a gun first.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident took place in front of the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) office. Mr. Chalong Riangrang disclosed details of the event at the Rattanathibeth Police Station, where he explained the circumstances leading to the shooting of Pol. Col. Thongchai Yenprasert, the President of the Nonthaburi PAO. The confrontation also resulted in serious injuries to the PAO President's driver. Mr. Chalong stated that the conflict originated from an attempt to reclaim an 11 million baht loan he had previously extended, as he is currently enduring financial difficulties and ongoing medical expenses due to a chronic illness since 2011.
Mr. Chalong explained that he had historically assisted friends in both business and financial matters without seeking repayment. However, faced with his financial struggles and learning of Mr. Thongchai's improved financial situation, he approached him to request assistance. Mr. Chalong claimed that Mr. Thongchai refused to discuss the matter, which led to a heated exchange. As Mr. Thongchai exited to his car, Mr. Chalong followed and attempted to engage further by knocking on the car window. When his requests were ignored, he revealed a gun, intending to prompt a conversation rather than violence. It was at this point, according to Mr. Chalong, that Mr. Thongchai's driver drew a weapon, prompting him to shoot in what he describes as self-defense.
Following the incident, Mr. Chalong surrendered to the authorities and expressed remorse to the people of Nonthaburi and the family of Mr. Thongchai. He maintained that there was no intent to kill, emphasizing that he considered Mr. Thongchai a friend and believed the dispute could have been settled peacefully through dialogue. He also apologized to his family, particularly his daughter, expressing deep regret over the incident.