Son of Spanish film stars faces court trial for the killing of a Colombian surgeon

The trial of Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, the son of Spanish actors, commenced on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, in Thailand’s court.

Sancho stands accused of the murder and dismemberment of Colombian surgeon Edwin Arrieta Arteaga on the tourist island of Koh Pha Ngan.

Arrieta’s remains were discovered stuffed in plastic bags at a landfill on Koh Pha Ngan, renowned for its vibrant “full moon parties.”

Sancho, aged 29, was indicted in October 2023 in connection with Arrieta’s death.

Representing Arrieta’s family, lawyer Juan Gonzalo Ospina Serrano expressed hope for justice, trusting the Thai legal system to reveal the truth.

Sancho faces charges of premeditated murder, concealment of a body, and destruction of documents belonging to others.

While Sancho pleaded not guilty to premeditated murder and destruction of documents, he admitted to hiding the victim’s body.

Premeditated murder carries a potential death penalty, while concealing or damaging a corpse is punishable by up to a year in prison.

The trial began with statements from witnesses brought in by the plaintiff. Sancho’s defense lawyer, Apichart Srinual, emphasized the significance of evidence and witnesses’ testimonies in determining the outcome of the case.

Sancho arrived at the court in a closed vehicle, shielded from reporters. His father, Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho, also attended the trial but refrained from making comments.

Sancho, a chef, was apprehended in August after Arrieta’s remains were found at the landfill. Police stated that Sancho initially reported Arrieta as missing and was later detained.

He reportedly confessed to killing and dismembering Arrieta, disposing of the body parts in the landfill and the sea. However, Sancho denied premeditation in his actions, according to police statements.