Two British brothers questioned by Thai police over backpacker murders

Two British brothers are being questioned over the murders of two backpackers in Thailand as tests revealed more about how the victims died. Chris Ware and his brother James, from Jersey, have been asked to stay in Thailand as experts wait for the results of DNA tests. The brothers were questioned as police continued to detain six Burmese suspects with alleged links to the deaths. Thai Police Colonel Kissana said there was “strong evidence” linking the Burmese suspects to the murders, including blood stains on clothes.

DNA tests are being completed and we should hopefully have a report tomorrow. We also have two British suspects but they have not been detained. We cannot rule them out. They were close friends and knew all about the victims. We have got to do whatever it takes to obtain concrete evidence.

Thai Police Colonel Kissana

The semi-naked bodies of Mr Miller, 24, also from Jersey, and 23-year-old Miss Witheridge, from Great Yarmouth, were discovered on a beach early on Monday. The developments came as forensic experts revealed David Miller died from drowning and a blow to the head. Hannah Witheridge died from head wounds. Pornchai Sutheerakune, head of the Thai Institute of Forensic Medicine, said Mr Miller also had wounds on his hand, indicating a struggle had taken place.

Once we receive the physical examination report, including a DNA test, we will be able to determine if he (Chris Ware) was involved in the incident.

Police officer, speaking anonymously