Police were called to the hotel, in Moo 5, Sakhu, at 12:30pm. Also to arrive at the scene were forensic specialists from Vachira Phuket Hospital along with rescue workers from Sakoo Rescue and the Phuket Kusoldharm foundation.
The tourist’s body was discovered by a maid who explained that she had gone to clean the room. She had knocked on the door and received no response, and used her key to enter the room, police reported.
Investigators, together with the forensic doctor, examined the scene and found no signs of struggle.
The deceased was identified as a 45-year-old Japanese national who had been staying alone.
Forensic doctors estimate that he had been dead for six to eight hours before being discovered.
A handwritten letter in Japanese was discovered in the room, where the deceased expressed feelings of loneliness and depression and mentioned previous suicide attempts. The note was kept as evidence.
The body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examination, and authorities are working with the Japanese Embassy in Thailand to inform the family and arrange for the repatriation of the body for religious services.
If you or anyone you know is in need of emotional support and counselling, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand at their hotline 02-113-6789 (English & Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai).