The inquest into activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s death in detention has been delayed due to witness absences and pending evidence review.
Hearing on Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s Death in Detention Postponed to March 2025
The Thanyaburi Provincial Court has postponed the inquest into activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s death in detention, originally scheduled for January 13, 2025. The delay comes after two critical witnesses failed to appear, and the victim’s family lawyers requested more time to review essential evidence.
Key Reasons Behind the Postponement
- Absence of Key Witnesses:
- A doctor from the Corrections Hospital who reportedly treated Netiporn during resuscitation.
- A doctor from Thammasat University Hospital who examined her upon arrival.
- Pending Evidence Review:
The victim’s family lawyers highlighted the lack of access to critical evidence before the hearing. They requested additional time to examine:- CCTV Footage: From the Corrections Hospital (3:00–9:00 AM, May 14, 2024) and Thammasat University Hospital during her transfer.
- Medical Records: Including postmortem CT scans of Netiporn’s brain and lungs.
The court approved the request and rescheduled the hearing for March 3, 2025, ensuring adequate time for a thorough review of the evidence.
Heightened Security During the Hearing
Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) reported strict security measures at the Thanyaburi Provincial Court:
- Restricted Access: Public entry was limited, with 30 police officers stationed at the gate.
- Searches and Monitoring: Observers were required to leave phones outside, and bags were searched for weapons.
- Attendance: Despite restrictions, activists, journalists, civil society representatives, and MP Sasinan Thamnithinan were present.
Details of Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s Death in Detention
Netiporn Sanesangkhom, a 28-year-old activist, died on May 14, 2024, at the Corrections Hospital following a prolonged hunger strike. She had been demanding judicial reform and the release of political detainees.
Key Events Leading to Her Death
- Detention and Charges:
Netiporn was detained on a royal defamation charge, with her bail revoked in January 2024. She was also serving a one-month sentence for contempt of court. - Medical Emergency:
- Transferred to Thammasat University Hospital after a cardiac arrest, arriving without vital signs.
- Doctors discovered that an endotracheal tube was improperly placed in her esophagus, contributing to her death.
- Diagnosed with Refeeding Syndrome, a condition caused by the reintroduction of food to a malnourished individual.
Public Response to Netiporn’s Death in Detention
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with activists and human rights groups demanding justice for Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s death in detention.
Demands for Accountability
- Activists called on key officials, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Minister of Justice Tawee Sodsong, to attend the court hearing.
- Protests and public statements have intensified scrutiny over the handling of Netiporn’s case, particularly the circumstances surrounding her detention and medical care.
Conclusion
The delayed inquest into Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s death in detention underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in Thailand’s judicial and correctional systems. Activists and the public are watching closely, demanding a thorough investigation and justice for Netipo