A Border Patrol Police officer who fatally shot a motorcycle taxi driver over a fare dispute early Sunday morning was brought to a court to face additional charges on Monday.
Pol L/Cpl Namthap Phakwattana, 33, was taken to the Criminal Court Monday afternoon, where he was slapped with further charges in relation to the death of a second motorcycle taxi rider shot during the incident.
Pol L/Cpl Namthap was charged with premeditated murder, attempted murder, and carrying a firearm in a public place without reasonable cause over the incident. Investigators opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the case and concerns that the suspect could flee.
The shooting was reported to the police at about 2.50am on Sunday.
Investigators said Pol L/Cpl Namthap approached a group of motorcycle taxi riders seeking a ride to Makkasan and was quoted a fare of 120 baht. A heated argument followed, and the officer fired a 9mm pistol at the group.
The first victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
Pol L/Cpl Namthap later surrendered to the police and told the police the shooting stemmed from a dispute over a fare.
He claimed the taxi motorcyclists assaulted him first and that he fired the weapon in self-defence.
