Policeman Convicted in Viral Torture Case Found Dead in Jail
Ex-Thai Police Chief Who Received Life Sentence for Suspect’s Death Dies in Prison Cell
Former Thai police chief Thitisan Utthanaphon, infamous for his role in the torture and killing of a drug suspect, was found dead in his Bangkok prison cell, authorities confirmed. A preliminary autopsy suggested he died by suicide.
Thitisan, nicknamed "Joe Ferrari" due to his collection of luxury cars, was sentenced to life in 2022 after a leaked video showed him and other officers suffocating a 24-year-old drug suspect, Jirapong Thanapat, with plastic bags during an interrogation. The disturbing footage sparked nationwide outrage over police brutality in Thailand.
Following Thitisan’s death, the video has resurfaced on social media, renewing public attention. His family, however, has raised concerns, doubting that he took his own life. In response, Thailand’s justice ministry has launched an investigation.
Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong emphasized that all evidence surrounding Thitisan’s death must be disclosed and urged full cooperation from prison officials. The family alleged that he had previously been assaulted by a prison officer and claimed authorities denied them access to his body. However, prison officials have stated that no inmate or staff member was responsible for his death.
Thitisan’s past wealth and lifestyle have long been under scrutiny. A raid on his residence revealed ownership of at least 42 luxury cars, including a rare Lamborghini Aventador Anniversario worth $1.45 million—despite his modest police salary of about $1,000 per month. Authorities suspected he acquired his fortune through corruption and bribes, including allegations that he extorted Jirapong while torturing him.
Thitisan surrendered to authorities in 2021 after a nationwide manhunt. Alongside him, five other officers were convicted for Jirapong’s murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Jirapong’s father reacted to the news of Thitisan’s death by stating, "It’s like he has paid off the karma he committed."
The Department of Corrections confirmed they were already investigating prior complaints from Thitisan’s family, who had reported that he was bullied and assaulted by prison officers. Officials noted that he had been receiving medical consultations for anxiety and sleep disorders.
On the day of his death, his family had visited him, and prison staff reported no unusual behavior. Further examinations are ongoing to confirm whether he indeed died by suicide.
Leave A Comment