Investigation Underway Following Death of Infamous Thai Police Chief

The former Thai police chief, Thitisan Utthanaphon, popularly known as Joe Ferrari for his luxury car collection, has been found dead in prison, prompting an investigation due to concerns surrounding the nature of his death and claims by his family of foul play.

A former police chief in Thailand, Thitisan Utthanaphon, widely recognized as Joe Ferrari for his extensive collection of luxury sports cars, was discovered dead in a Bangkok jail cell, with preliminary reports suggesting suicide. Thitisan had been sentenced to life in prison three years ago for the torture and death of a drug suspect, an incident that ignited outrage across the nation. The harrowing details emerged when a leaked interrogation video surfaced, showing police officers, including Thitisan, suffocating the victim, 24-year-old Jirapong Thanapat, with plastic bags.

In light of Thitisan's death, the Thai justice ministry has initiated an investigation following expressions of doubt from his family regarding the circumstances surrounding his demise. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong emphasized the need for transparency, calling for all evidence related to the incident to be made available and urging prison authorities to cooperate with the inquiry.

Thitisan’s family raised allegations that he had previously been assaulted by prison personnel and voiced concerns over not being allowed to view his body, which was found on Friday. However, officials dismissed the claims, asserting that no harm had come to him from officers or other inmates.

Thitisan's luxury lifestyle was well-known prior to his incarceration, with authorities uncovering his ownership of at least 42 high-end cars, including a rare Lamborghini Aventador Anniversario valued at around $1.45 million. Despite making approximately $1,000 per month as a police colonel, there were accusations that he extorted money from the victim during the interrogation.

Alongside Thitisan, five additional officers implicated in the murder were also given life sentences in 2022. As the investigation is set to continue, the family of Jirapong Thanapat has remarked on what they perceive as a fitting sense of justice, stating, "It's like he has paid off the karma he committed."