Five rangers have been killed and five civilians injured in a violent assault on a security checkpoint in Thailand’s deep south. The attack occurred at the Bukeh Sami checkpoint in tambon Tanyong Mat on Tuesday evening, around 6:45 PM. Six individuals, described as wearing black clothing and traveling in a black Nissan pickup truck, opened fire and deployed pipe bombs.
Deadly Ambush in Narathiwat
The Internal Security Operations Command’s Region 4 forward command confirmed the identities of the fallen rangers: SM1 Theerayoot Somakerd and volunteer rangers Sakeereeya Jehna, Wimol Dapthong, Nathasit Kaeosena, and Solahuding Pi. The five injured civilians, including two young boys, were also reported by authorities. Following the attack, the assailants escaped along Highway 4055, heading towards tambon Dusongyor. Security forces have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Context of Southern Insurgency
This fatal incident follows another violent event just days prior, when a car bomb exploded near a police station in the Muang district of Narathiwat on Tuesday night. These attacks underscore the persistent challenges in the southern border provinces, an area that has experienced significant unrest since insurgent activity resurged in 2004. An estimated 7,700 people have lost their lives in the violence that has plagued the region over the past two decades.
Condemnation from Authorities
Col Ekwarit Chobchupol, deputy spokesman for the Region 4 forward command, issued a strong condemnation of the checkpoint attack. He described the act as “cruel and inhumane,” highlighting that the assault took place in a populated community area. Col Chobchupol emphasized the attackers’ apparent disregard for the suffering of innocent civilians.
Peace Process Efforts
The Thai government has been actively seeking to revive the stalled peace process aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict in the southern provinces. Recent efforts have included renewed dialogue with Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), the primary umbrella group for the insurgency. Thanut Suvarnananda, who has been appointed as Thailand’s new lead negotiator, has indicated that the negotiating team will carefully consider input and advice from all communities
