Nonthaburi: The court heard the final testimonies from two key witnesses in the high-profile "Tangmo" case, marking a significant step towards concluding the legal proceedings that have captured public attention. The court is anticipated to deliver a verdict in approximately two and a half months.
According to Thai News Agency, Lawyer Decha Kittiwittayanan, representing Ms. Panida Sirayutthayothin, mother of the late actress Ms. Pattaratida Patcharawirapong, known as Tangmo, attended the Nonthaburi Provincial Court for the witness examinations. The last two witnesses for the defense, Kratik Idsarin and Mr. Pheem Thammathirasri, testified regarding the events surrounding Tangmo's tragic fall from a boat.
Lawyer Decha indicated that the testimonies were expected to be brief, as the defense witnesses' statements align with established facts. The court will deliberate on the evidence for the next two and a half months before reaching a verdict. During this period, the court will also address a petition for contempt of court filed against individuals involved in a reenactment of the incident.
Lawyer Pornsak Wiphasaphanon, representing another party involved, mentioned that a petition was filed to investigate accusations of contempt against Mr. Atchariya Ruangrattanapong and others. These allegations stem from actions taken during the reenactment and interviews that may have undermined the court's authority. The court has yet to determine if these actions constitute contempt.
Efforts to reopen the case by Mr. Atchariya and his group were discussed by Lawyer Decha, who confirmed the complexities involved in such an action. The investigation has been referred to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to assess potential police misconduct or negligence.
In discussions concerning legal procedures, both the plaintiff's and defendant's legal teams acknowledged their ability to engage in legal dialogue without impacting the case file. Tangmo's mother has opted to exclude certain witnesses to streamline proceedings, given the extensive number of medical testimonies already presented.
Lawyer Decha expressed willingness to work with authorities should new evidence emerge, though he chose not to collaborate with Mr. Atchariya. The Nonthaburi Provincial Court saw significant attendance from involved parties, including "Kratik-Lawyer Phonsak" and Ms. Phanida, who arrived early to observe the trial.