THAI authorities have clarified that the fatal shooting of a 33-year-old Malaysian man in the town of Sungai Golok on 1 November was linked to a business-related debt dispute, and not connected to drugs.
Major General Prayong Kotsakha, Narathiwat Provincial Police Chief, said the victim, identified as Mohd Fuad Fahmie Ghazali from Pasir Mas, was allegedly targeted after failing to settle a debt amounting to several thousand ringgit owed to the suspect, a 31-year-old former Kelantan footballer.
“The victim is believed to have refused to repay the debt to the suspect since last year. Based on our investigation, the suspect admitted that he and the victim had several arguments regarding this matter,” Prayong told reporters.
“Their disputes began last year but were reportedly resolved by friends and family at the time.”
However, Prayong explained that a third confrontation occurred earlier this month, during which the suspect admitted to shooting the victim multiple times after he once again refused to clear the outstanding debt.
“Based on the investigation so far, the Thai police reject any claims that this murder is linked to drugs. Further investigation is ongoing, and the suspect is currently in custody at Narathiwat prison,” he added.
Reports indicate that the victim was shot eight times in the incident around 6.40 pm and was rushed to Sungai Golok Hospital, where he was pronounced dead later that evening.
His pregnant wife reportedly told hospital authorities that he had sustained a total of 18 gunshot wounds.
According to the woman, two individuals approached her and her husband before firing until their ammunition was exhausted, after which they fled the scene.
A 31-year-old man later surrendered to police on 2 November, with two firearms seized during the arrest. - November 16, 2025
