- Why It Matters: The incident highlights the darker side of cannabis cultivation in Thailand, amidst its growing acceptance and legalization.
- The Big Picture: This murder case sheds light on the potential risks and criminal activities that can still surround cannabis farms, despite recent efforts to regulate and legitimize the industry in Thailand.
- What To Watch: The investigation’s progress and its implications for the cannabis industry and foreign nationals living in Thailand.
PHUKET, THAILAND – In a shocking turn of events that has gripped the southern island of Phuket, ARTUR MKHITARIAN, a 42-year-old Russian national, was found dead in a rented house turned cannabis farm in the Muang district. The discovery was made on Wednesday afternoon, revealing a grim scene that has since sparked an intense investigation by local authorities.
Mkhitarian’s body, bearing multiple severe cuts to his throat and body, was found in a pool of blood among the cannabis plants he was reportedly cultivating. The police, who believe he had been dead for at least 12 hours before being found, are now in pursuit of a suspect believed to be a foreign national.
The victim’s disappearance was first noted by his Russian girlfriend, who, after losing contact with him for two days, sought the help of the car rental service from which Mkhitarian had rented a vehicle. Using GPS tracking, the white Honda City was located in front of the house on Soi Sai Nam Yen, leading to the grim discovery.
Initial investigations suggest that Mkhitarian and his Thai girlfriend, who had rented the house, initially intended to start a tour company. However, due to unspecified issues, they turned to cannabis cultivation. Neighbors reported frequent visits by foreigners to the house, presumably to buy and consume cannabis.
Authorities are now focusing on a suspect, believed to be from Tajikistan, who had entered Thailand shortly before the murder and has since left the country. The investigation continues, with the police working to unravel the circumstances leading to Mkhitarian’s death and its connection to the cannabis trade.
Original sources: MGR Online, Matichon, Thai Rath, Bangkok Post, Today Line, MSN, TNA MCOT.
