Thai police ‘have concrete DNA evidence’ over tourist murders

The men, named in reports as bar workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun, are accused of the brutal murders of Miss Witheridge, 23, and 24-year-old Mr Miller on the island of Koh Tao in September.

The two suspects, both 21, were charged with three offences – conspiracy to murder, conspiracy to rape and robbery – after local police said the men confessed to the killings.

But reports emerged on Thursday that Aung Myo Thant, a Burmese embassy official, had formally retracted their confessions amid allegations the pair were tortured.

A spokesman for the Royal Thai Police yesterday strongly denied the accusations of torture as he insisted the confessions had not been withdrawn.

DNA samples taken from Miss Witheridge’s body had matched the two suspects, who could face a death sentence if convicted, he said.

Deputy police chief spokesman Colonel Kissana Phathanacharoen said: “They made a full confession which has been forwarded to the public attorney’s office.

“The Burmese embassy sent a representative to look at the case because two of their nationals have been charged with serious offences.

“The men are still in custody. During the inquiry they had their own legal representations.

“We had them checked by a doctor before and after the inquiry because we thought the accused may claim they were tortured. The accused persons can say anything want.

“They can withdraw their confessions if they like. We have concrete evidence including DNA evidence from Hannah’s body which matched the two suspects.

The funeral of Miss Witheridge took place on Saturday at St Mary The Virgin church in Hemsby, Norfolk.