Suspect Ekkaluck Paenoi Declines Crime Re-enactment

Authorities have unveiled that the alleged assassin of former Cambodian MP Lim Kimya claims his actions stemmed from a "debt of gratitude" to a benefactor who hired him. Pol Maj-General Atthaphon Wongsiriprida, commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 1, provided insights during a press briefing on Sunday.

Ekkaluck Paenoi, the suspect in the high-profile assassination that took place in Bangkok's Bang Lamphu district on January 7, reportedly confessed that he was approached by a civilian with whom he had a prior connection. This benefactor had previously offered him assistance during a personal crisis. “Ekkaluck stated that he felt compelled to repay this support, which included financial aid and advice after he was dismissed from his job,” Atthaphon explained.

The suspect initially hesitated when asked to carry out the assassination but ultimately accepted a payment of 60,000 baht, with an upfront installment of 30,000 baht. He disclosed that he used part of the advance—2,000 baht—to buy back a firearm he had previously pawned.

Ekkaluck deliberated for approximately a day before agreeing to the assignment, influenced by the benefactor's persistent communication via phone. Investigators are working to uncover the benefactor's identity and assess whether this individual could also become a suspect in the case.

While being interrogated, Ekkaluck noted that he had never visited Cambodia and relied on a contact for instructions on how to execute the plan. These directives, sent through the Line messaging app, included photos and real-time updates regarding Lim's location.

As Ekkaluck attempted to flee to Cambodia after the shooting, he continued receiving guidance from the unnamed source via Line messages that directed his movements.

In a notable twist, Ekkaluck has chosen not to participate in a re-enactment of the crime, citing safety concerns and a desire to avoid confronting his accusers. Instead, he suggested that someone act on his behalf while he describes the sequence of events through a video call.

Ekkaluck is expected to appear before the Criminal Court on Monday, January 13, as the investigation into this tragic assassination progresses.

Lim Kimya was shot shortly after arriving in Bangkok, accompanied by his wife and older brother, an incident that has sparked widespread alarm and condemnation within the Cambodian community.

^{Source: The Nation (Thailand)}