Narathiwat: The Ko Saton Subdistrict Administrative Organization’s sports day event turned into a scene of chaos when gunmen opened fire, injuring three volunteer defense corps members and one teacher. In a parallel incident, a checkpoint near Chanae Police Station was attacked, resulting in the death of a police officer and injury to another.

According to Thai News Agency, the first attack occurred at the Sepak Takraw sports field in Tak Bai District, where an assailant dressed in black entered and fired several shots, causing participants to flee. The attack left four individuals injured, including Mr. Sukree, a teacher at Ko Saton School, and three members of the volunteer defense corps. They were swiftly taken to Tak Bai Hospital for medical treatment.

Investigations revealed that six perpetrators used three motorcycles to approach the event, blending with the crowd before opening fire. In response, the Tak Bai District Chief visited the injured to offer support and compensation. Meanwhile, the authorities are actively pursuing the attackers.

In a separate incident, a group of ten armed assailants targeted the Chanae Police Station. During the attack, they opened fire at officers stationed at a checkpoint, leading to a confrontation. Pol.Sgt.Maj. Abdulleh, who was on the third floor of the police station, attempted to support his colleagues by firing back but was fatally shot in the head.

The Chanae District Chief, Mr. Pichit Rungprasert, coordinated with military and police forces to counter the attackers. After a 15-minute exchange of gunfire, the attackers retreated. The aftermath revealed significant damage, including bullet-riddled windows and over 30 bullet casings, which were collected as evidence.

Pol. Sgt. Maj. Jessada, injured in the attack, was hospitalized, while Pol. Sgt. Maj. Abdulleh’s body was moved for religious ceremonies and burial with full honors at Ba Le Baro cemetery in Ra-ngae District.

The authorities remain on high alert as they intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators responsible for these violent acts in Narathiwat Province.