A Thai woman known as “Ms. Cyanide” has been sentenced to death for poisoning her friend with the deadly chemical, as she faces accusations of killing at least 13 others in a chilling series of crimes dating back to 2015.
Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, was convicted on Wednesday of murdering her friend, Siriporn Kanwong, 32, in what is the first of 14 murder trials she will face. Despite the gravity of the sentencing, Rangsiwuthaporn smiled as the verdict was delivered.
The Case Against Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn
Rangsiwuthaporn earned the nickname “Ms. Cyanide” from Thai media after police uncovered a pattern of suspicious deaths tied to her.
- The Murder of Siriporn Kanwong: In April 2023, Kanwong collapsed and died during a trip to Ratchaburi province, west of Bangkok, after sharing a meal with Rangsiwuthaporn. Traces of cyanide were found in Kanwong’s body, and her money, phone, and bags were missing.
- A Trail of Deaths: Following Rangsiwuthaporn’s arrest, authorities uncovered evidence linking her to 13 other deaths, all involving wealthy acquaintances from whom she allegedly borrowed and refused to repay significant sums of money.
- A Gambling Addiction: Police said Rangsiwuthaporn targeted her victims—friends and acquaintances—for financial gain, feeding a gambling addiction.
A Network of Alleged Accomplices
The case also implicated Rangsiwuthaporn’s ex-husband and others:
- Ex-Husband Sentenced: Vitoon Rangsiwuthaporn received a one-year, four-month prison sentence for his role in helping her poison an ex-boyfriend.
- Lawyer and Former Police Officer: Both were sentenced to two years in prison for aiding Rangsiwuthaporn by hiding evidence.
A Chilling Pattern of Behavior
Rangsiwuthaporn’s crimes shocked the nation. Police believe she used cyanide, a heavily regulated substance in Thailand, to carry out her murders. The poison is so strictly controlled that unauthorized possession can result in up to two years in prison.
During her trials, Rangsiwuthaporn pleaded not guilty to all charges, but the evidence—including her connection to multiple deaths and financial motives—painted a damning picture.
Sentencing and Restitution
The court sentenced Rangsiwuthaporn to death for Kanwong’s murder and ordered her to pay Kanwong’s family 2 million baht ($57,667) in restitution.
Despite the severe punishment, Rangsiwuthaporn smiled as the verdict was read, a chilling reaction that has drawn widespread public attention.
What’s Next?
Rangsiwuthaporn faces 13 more murder trials and has been charged with around 80 offenses in total, making her one of Thailand’s most notorious serial killers. As the investigations continue, authorities hope to uncover the full extent of her crimes.
A Nation in Shock
The case has captivated and horrified the Thai public, drawing comparisons to infamous serial killers worldwide. It highlights the dangers of unchecked financial desperation and the devastating impact of betrayal by trusted friends.
While Rangsiwuthaporn awaits further trials, the story of “Ms. Cyanide” serves as a grim reminder of the lengths some will go to for greed.
