Two Thai men have been arrested in connection with the murder of two Russian siblings, Diana Nazimova, 22, and Roman Nazimova, 17, whose bodies are believed to be buried in the Sattahip district of Chon Buri province. The siblings were reported missing by their mother, Sarina Nazimova, on July 28th after they disappeared in Pattaya. The investigation escalated when residents discovered evidence near an abandoned crematorium, leading to the apprehension of the suspects on July 31st.
Disappearance and Initial Investigation
The alarm was raised on July 28th when Sarina Nazimova filed a missing person report at the Huay Yai Police Station concerning her children, Diana and Roman. CCTV footage provided the last known sighting of the siblings, showing them near a motorway bridge between Map Ta Phut and Na Jomtien. In the footage, they were observed interacting with an unidentified man and were followed by another motorcyclist shortly before their disappearance.
The following evening, July 29th, local residents alerted authorities after observing four men carrying digging equipment near a disused crematorium close to the bridge. The timing of this activity, reported around 10 PM on July 28th, raised immediate suspicion. A subsequent police search of the area uncovered the motorcycle rented by the Russian siblings. The vehicle was found dismantled and buried in two separate pits. A recovered registration plate confirmed its ownership by the missing individuals.
Law enforcement deployed K-9 units to aid in the search for further evidence and the missing siblings. During their inquiries, residents pointed to a local man, known as “Pong,” as a potential suspect. His proximity to the site where the motorcycle was discovered, coupled with his alleged involvement in following the siblings prior to their disappearance, made him a person of interest. Reports also indicated that Pong had prior convictions related to child abduction and illegal firearm possession.
Arrests and Confessions
On the evening of July 31st, police apprehended Thana Kirdthong, 43, identified as the suspect known as Pong, and Thongchai Srinin, 39, in the Wang Sombun district of Sa Kaeo province. Authorities stated that the two men were arrested as they were allegedly attempting to leave the country.
During initial police questioning, Thongchai reportedly told investigators that Thana had shot both Russian siblings. He further stated that the bodies were subsequently buried on a mountain, believed to be in the Khao Chi Chan area of Sattahip district, Chon Buri. Thana Kirdthong later admitted to the killings while under interrogation. According to police statements, Thana claimed he shot Roman Nazimova and assaulted Diana Nazimova, leading to her death. He reportedly denied any sexual assault against Diana.
Motive and Ongoing Investigation
Investigators have suggested that the primary motive behind the murders was the theft of the motorcycle rented by the siblings. The dismantling and burial of the vehicle at a remote location appear to support this theory.
Following the arrests and confessions, police are working to locate the exact burial site of Diana and Roman Nazimova. Both Thana Kirdthong and Thongchai Srinin have been taken back to the crime scene area to assist authorities in reconstructing the events leading up to the siblings’ deaths and to pinpoint the location where their bodies are believed to be interred. The ongoing investigation aims to gather all necessary evidence and ensure justice for the victims and their grieving mother.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The tragic discovery of the murdered Russian siblings has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised concerns about safety, particularly for foreign residents and tourists in the Pattaya area. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Authorities are urging anyone with further information related to the case to come forward. The investigation remains active as police work to solidify the case against the arrested individuals and provide closure to the Nazimova family. The recovery of the victims’ bodies is a critical next step in the process.
