Authorities say there is now enough evidence to believe that the key suspect in the high-profile dismemberment murder case has also been involved in a cross-border drug-trafficking gang.

Police said, however, that the link has nothing to do with the murder, which was apparently carried out over vengeance.

“After we talked to the ONCB, we found that there is grounds to believe she is involved in drugs,” Deputy National Police Commissioner Pol General Chalermkiat Srivorakan said after meeting with ONCB secretary general Sirinya Sittichai yesterday.

Sirinya refused to reveal details of how Priyanuch had been involved in the drug-trafficking gang as it might affect the ongoing investigation.

“We have now worked with Myanmar police in gathering evidence. When we get more evidence, we will press drug charges against her,” he said.

Earlier, national police chief Pol General Chakthip Chaijinda maintained that the suspect’s motive had nothing to do with any transnational narcotic syndicate although she had a history of drug abuse.

Meanwhile, the family of the 22-year-old woman who was killed and dismembered yesterday filed a Bt10 million lawsuit against the five suspects in the crime.

“Completing vocational education, the victim was a breadwinner and was just 22 years old,” lawyer Noppadon Sidatan said yesterday on behalf of Warisara Klinjui’s family.

Warisara was found dead last month. Evidence suggests Priyanuch Wangnonchai and four alleged accomplices murdered Warisara and cut her body into pieces. All suspects are now in custody.

“I will check what assets these suspects have so that I can ask the court to freeze them. This is a step to ensure that if and when we win the case, we will get the compensation,” Noppadon said.

“We will file a bankruptcy lawsuit against them if necessary.”

The compensation lawsuit is in addition to criminal proceedings that the five suspects are now facing.

Noppadon has also helped Warisara’s family sue Prapasri Somsri, an elder sister of Priyanuch, for damages over defamation.

The lawsuit against Prapasri also seeks Bt10-million compensation.