Seven-year-old girl killed by stepsister after quarrel over mobile phone dispute, body hidden in wardrobe

BANGKOK - A 13-year-old girl has been charged with killing her seven-year-old stepsister following a quarrel over mobile phone use in Sangkhla Buri district, Kanchanaburi province, Thailand.

Region 7 Police Commander Lieutenant General Pisit Tanprasert said investigations found the victim was believed to have been killed at their home in Ban Thi Khrong, Tambon Prang Phle, on the afternoon of May 30.

He said the two children shared the same mother but had different fathers and frequently quarrelled, including over mobile phone use.

"The suspect is believed to have caused the victim's death by suffocation following a dispute," he told a press conference on Saturday.

He said the victim's body was initially hidden inside a wardrobe at the house before being removed that same night by their 17-year-old uncle.

The teenage boy allegedly carried the body to a rubber plantation approximately 600 metres from the house before leaving it there. A sack used to transport the body was also burned near the site.

According to Pisit, the victim's mother was shocked when informed of the investigation's findings, as neither teenager had said anything about what had happened since the child went missing.

Authorities have also provided counselling services to the victim's mother, who has been in emotional distress following the incident.

The girl's body was found on June 1.

Earlier reports indicated signs believed to suggest the victim had been sexually assaulted.

However, police said investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of death and confirm all criminal elements that may be involved.

Both teenagers are currently regarded as prime suspects in the case. – Agency