Narathiwat: Fierce clash erupted as a group of about 50 assailants assaulted a security unit base in Kreer Subdistrict, Narathiwat Province. They used pipe bombs and military weapons, resulting in a confrontation lasting more than 20 minutes, which left two officers injured.
According to Thai News Agency, the attack occurred at 5:50 a.m. when perpetrators targeted the Kia Subdistrict Protection Unit base with improvised explosive devices and military weapons. Sukhirin Police Station responded by collaborating with soldiers from the Narathiwat Task Force, bomb disposal units, forensic officers, and administrative officials to investigate the scene.
Investigations revealed that three pipe bombs were thrown into the base, although none initially detonated. One bomb eventually exploded, but no injuries were reported due to preemptive safety measures. The remaining bombs were safely neutralized by bomb disposal officers.
CCTV footage indicated the involvement of approximately 50 armed individuals, divided into three groups, who infiltrated the base from different directions. The attackers, armed with M16, AK, shotguns, and M79 grenade launchers, targeted the command building and dormitories within the base. Despite being outnumbered and at a terrain disadvantage, the officers engaged in a firefight, eventually forcing the attackers to retreat after more than 20 minutes.
The clash resulted in injuries to Sgt. Maj. Aphisit Sri-anurak, who suffered a gunshot wound to the waist, and Volunteer Defense Corpsman Wahamram Waesamae, who sustained a head injury. Both were initially treated at Sukirin Hospital before being transferred to Su-ngai Kolok Hospital for further care.
Officials suspect the attack was orchestrated by local perpetrators aiming to incite unrest in the southern border provinces. Mr. Wichan Chaisetthasampan, Deputy Governor of Narathiwat Province, later visited the injured officers at the hospital, providing encouragement and compensation. Both officers are reported to be in stable condition and receiving close medical attention.