Thai Prime Minister apologises for the murders of Russians and

A senior official of the Kingdom described the bloody acts as a disgrace, calling on the authorities to step up security for citizens and tourists.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the two Russian citizens who fell victim to the high-profile murders, and also apologised to Russian tourists and the people of Russia in connection with the incident. The Prime Minister called on the police and the public prosecutor’s office to conduct a swift investigation into the murders of the Russians and the Thai family of three, and to bring the cases to court as soon as possible.

Mr Anutin Charnvirakul condemned these crimes as serious offences that have damaged Thailand’s reputation and undermined public trust. He described the murders as a disgrace committed by two Thai suspects, emphasising that such crimes risk undoing years of efforts to promote Thailand as a safe tourist destination and a reliable location for international investment.

The investigation began following the arrest on Friday in Sa Kaeo province of 43-year-old Thana Kertthong, who had a previous criminal record, and 39-year-old Thongchai Srinil. They were detained in connection with the disappearance of 22-year-old Diana Nazimova and 17-year-old Roman Nazimov, who went missing on 26 July.

The suspects are believed to have led the police to a burial site in a forest in the Banglamung district, where the bodies of the Russian brother and sister were found in a shallow grave. During the subsequent investigation, law enforcement officers also found the bodies of a Thai family of three buried in a nearby coconut grove, after Thana Kertthong reportedly confessed to their murder during a robbery.

Police later arrested two additional suspects — Chatchanan Paen-ayam and Atsadang Chuwong. Investigations are currently underway to determine whether this group may be linked to other crimes. All four suspects were taken to Pattaya Provincial Court to be remanded in custody. Investigators opposed their release on bail given the seriousness of the offences and the potential for severe punishment.

The detainees face numerous charges, including premeditated murder, concealing bodies, rape, robbery, and the unlawful possession of firearms and explosives. The court refused to grant the suspects bail.

Anutin Charnvirakul cancelled Saturday’s events in Suphanburi and personally inspected the crime scenes in Chonburi by helicopter. He visited the wooded area in Huai Yai district and a coconut grove where the victims’ bodies were found, demonstrating direct government involvement and accountability.

The police reported that the arrest of the first two suspects on Friday had led to the solving of the second murder. The bodies of the Thai family, who had been reported missing over a month ago, were found buried nearby. After briefings from the police and emergency services, Anutin Charnvirakul said the government would not support leniency in sentencing for those who commit serious crimes that undermine public trust and Thailand’s image as a tourist destination. He also instructed authorities to step up security measures and increase patrols to reassure the public and prevent similar incidents.

“These murders are tantamount to the murder of the entire nation, because they have damaged public trust and tarnished Thailand’s reputation,” the Prime Minister emphasised. He noted that these crimes were the actions of individuals and did not reflect Thailand’s overall level of public safety. Anutin Charnvirakul promised that investigators would diligently pursue all accomplices and ensure that everyone involved in these acts is brought to justice, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fairness and accountability.

The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to the victims’ relatives, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting affected families and reassuring the public of their care and concern. The authorities have been instructed to provide her with comprehensive assistance, including help with the repatriation of the victims’ bodies. “If you ask why I have come here, it is to ensure that everything is carried out as quickly as possible, whether it be the investigation or the return of the bodies to their homeland,” said Anutin Charnvirakul. “We must show that Thailand deeply regrets what has happened, provide all possible assistance and restore trust. Such an incident must never happen again.”

Responding to reports that one of the suspects had previously served a prison sentence before committing these murders, Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the authorities would review law enforcement measures regarding repeat offenders. The Thai Government is demonstrating a firm commitment to protecting the safety of citizens and tourists, whilst striving to restore international confidence and prevent similar tragedies in the future.