A 42-year-old Chinese man has been arrested in connection with the shocking murder of a 25-year-old transgender woman in Pattaya, Thailand. The suspect, identified as Tongyung Fu, allegedly committed the crime in a rented apartment, where the victim was found with severe injuries, including her heart and lungs removed.
The chilling incident occurred on April 25, 2025, in North Pattaya, Chonburi Province. According to police reports, the victim, Waranat Phannacha, had met Fu earlier that day at Pattaya Beach, where they exchanged contact information via the messaging app WeChat. Fu reportedly believed Waranat was a cisgender woman, not knowing her true identity.
Later that evening, Waranat visited Fu's apartment, where they agreed on a payment of 8,000 baht for sexual services. However, when it came time to engage in sexual activity, Waranat allegedly refused, leading to a confrontation between the two. Fu claimed that during the altercation, he was pushed off the bed, which triggered his violent response.
In his confession, Fu stated, "After I was pushed, I jumped back on the bed and strangled her until she was unconscious." He admitted to feeling extreme anger and panic, which led him to commit the horrific act. Following the murder, Fu described how he used scissors to mutilate Waranat's body, removing her silicone implants and other organs, which he then disposed of.
Fu's arrest took place on April 26, 2025, at Suvarnabhumi Airport, where he was attempting to flee back to Kunming, China. The authorities had issued a warrant for his arrest, and police were able to apprehend him before he could board his flight.
Upon his capture, Fu displayed signs of distress, reportedly keeping his head down and appearing anxious. He was taken to Pattaya Police Station for further questioning, where he provided a detailed account of the events leading up to Waranat's death. Police Lieutenant Colonel Anok Sarasthong-ayu, who is leading the investigation, stated that Fu had been cooperative but claimed he did not intend to kill Waranat.
Fu's narrative included a claim that he had purchased scissors and other items earlier that day for self-defense while out at night. He expressed remorse during his confession, stating he wished to apologize to Waranat's family for his actions. He also mentioned that he had visited Thailand three times before, describing it as a safe country.
Despite Fu's assertions, the police are treating this case with utmost seriousness, as the nature of the crime raises significant concerns about violence against marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ population in Thailand. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more evidence, including DNA samples from the crime scene.
As the investigation unfolds, community leaders and activists have called for increased awareness and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals in Thailand, emphasizing the need for societal change and better support systems for vulnerable populations.
Waranat's murder has sparked outrage and concern among LGBTQ+ advocates, who are demanding justice and accountability for crimes targeting transgender individuals. The case highlights the persistent issues of discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand and beyond.
In the wake of this tragic event, many are left questioning the safety and rights of transgender individuals in Thailand, a country known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture yet marred by incidents of violence against this community. As the legal proceedings against Fu continue, the hope is that this case will serve as a catalyst for change and greater protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in the region.
Authorities have stated they will provide updates as more information becomes available and as the investigation progresses. The community is watching closely, eager for justice and a commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future.
