
Canadian nationalMatthewDuprehas been successfully extradited to Thailand in connection with the killing last year of a criminal gang member, Thai authorities said on Monday, after the former soldier arrived in Bangkok on a special air force flight.
Dupre, 38, is wanted for the alleged murder of suspected criminal Jimi Sandhu, who was shot dead in Phuket in February 2022, central investigation bureau commissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej told a news conference.
"The deceased is connected with the United Nation Gang and was linked to the murder of one ofthe leaders of another gang, called the Red Scorpion, in Canada," Jirabhop said.
Police footage showedDuprein handcuffs and surrounded by police on an airplane. The extradition involved a Thai air force flight after commercial airlines declined requests for transport over safety concerns, Thai police said.
"We have to get hold of the suspect so that he be prosecuted under the Thai judicial system," state prosecutor Intranee Sumawong said, adding thatDuprewould not face the death penalty under the extradition bill.
"We have to ensure that there is security in Thailand and uphold our reputation that this country is safe to live in," she said.
An Alberta court approved the extradition ofDuprelast December.
WATCH WION LIVE HERE
You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.