DNA taken from the skull found in a forest in Nam Yuen district of Ubon Ratchathani matches that of a local education office director missing for more than three months, according to an unofficial test result.
The test result was disclosed yesterday by Pol Maj Gen Suradet Dentham, chief of provincial police in Si Sa Ket where the missing director, Juthaporn Oun-on, 37, lived and worked.
Ms Juthaporn disappeared from her home more than three months ago and her family had offered a reward for clues leading to her whereabouts.
On Oct 22, Laem Oun-on, Ms Juthaporn's mother, said her daughter came in her dream and said her body was lying in a forest in the mountain near a helicopter pad of a local military base. The area is in tambon Doam Pradit of Nam Yuen district of Ubon Ratchathani.
The family went to the spot the next morning and found the skull, some hair, a molar and a black leather band wrist watch. Ms Laem reportedly recognised the watch as belonging to her daughter. The family alerted police to the discovery.
Juthaporn: Missing since July
Pol Maj Gen Suradet said an unofficial result of the forensic test on the skull revealed a positive DNA match with that of Juthaporn, who directed the office of education at the tambon Cham administration organisation in Kantharalak district of Si Sa Ket.
The provincial district commander has ordered local police to be meticulous in collecting evidence and questioning witnesses and persons of interest.
So far, police have arrested army Capt Supachai Phaso, who is also known as Capt Neng, in connection with the case. He has been charged, among other offences, with premeditated murder and the concealing of a corpse.
The suspect has been remanded in the custody of the Kantharalak provincial court since Oct 16 and his detention is due for renewal on tomorrow.
A local police source said they expected Juthaporn's family will oppose the army officer's bail request.
If released on bail, the suspect might tamper with evidence. He also poses a flight risk, according to police.
Boonlert Oun-on, Juthaporn's father, voiced his confidence the police have solid evidence to indict the suspect in court.
He added the family was waiting for the return of the remains of their daughter so they can perform a religious rite.