Songkhla: “Sirichoke” believes the car was burned in connection with politics. Police are urgently searching for clues about the perpetrators. Sirichoke confirms that the car was set on fire due to politics. Police are urgently searching for clues about the perpetrators. The car owner company has issued a letter explaining the cause of the fire.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident involved a GWM HAVAL H6 PHEV car owned by Mr. Sirichoke Sopha, a former Member of Parliament for Songkhla with the Democrat Party for four terms. The vehicle was parked at his residence in Nathawi District, Songkhla Province, when it was set ablaze at approximately 3:00 a.m., resulting in total damage to the car. A report has been filed with the Nathawi Police Station to determine whether the fire was caused by a defect or arson.
Recent developments in the investigation have confirmed that the fire was an act of intentional arson. Investigators from Nathawi Police Station, along with forensic police, found evidence including six burned tires reduced to steel fibers and roofing tape, which was likely used as an accelerant. This evidence was collected to aid in identifying the perpetrators, confirming that the incident was not accidental or due to a car defect.
Mr. Sirichoke expressed his belief that the arson was politically motivated, citing the use of tires and gasoline to start the fire. He emphasized that, despite the lack of official confirmation from the evidence center, the circumstances indicate intentional arson. He dismissed personal vendettas, business conflicts, or romantic involvements as potential motives, attributing the act to political tensions as elections approach. Despite suggestions to relocate for safety, Mr. Sirichoke remains committed to his residence and plans to contest in the upcoming election for Constituency 7.
Pol. Col. Nisit Sa-ae, Superintendent of Nathawi Police Station, stated that the investigation is considering all possible motives, including personal, political, and situational factors. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage to identify any suspicious activities or individuals in the vicinity during the incident, with a particular focus on arson.
Additionally, GWM (Thailand) released a statement expressing condolences for the incident and support for the affected customer. The company promptly initiated an investigation upon learning of the fire. Their expert team, in collaboration with police, examined the car wreckage and discovered burnt tire fibers unrelated to the car’s original tires. GWM clarified that their vehicles’ high-voltage battery systems are equipped with advanced technology to monitor for abnormalities, ensuring the safety of customers. The company is cooperating fully with authorities to determine the cause of the fire.