Sisaket province: A merit-making ceremony was held at Wat Mahaputtharam’s crematorium for the royal cremation of seven civilians who lost their lives due to the Thai-Cambodian border conflict.

According to Thai News Agency, Phra Wachirasitthadha, the provincial abbot of Sisaket Province, along with 10 monks, conducted Buddhist prayers and delivered a sermon during the royal cremation ceremony. His Majesty the King graciously extended royal patronage for the ceremony at Wat Maha Phuttharam, a royal temple in Mueang Nuea Subdistrict, Mueang District, Sisaket Province.

The event was presided over by Mr. Thatree Sirirungwanich, Deputy Governor of Sisaket Province, alongside relatives and family members of the deceased, fellow students, colleagues, and officials from various agencies. The atmosphere was solemn as they gathered to remember Ms. Rungrat, Ms. Thaksaporn, Mr. Phongsapat, Mr. Kittisak, Ms. Sawitree, Ms. Arunrat, and Mr. Somsri. Five of the deceased were killed when a BM-21 rocket fired by Cambodia struck a convenience store within a gas station, while the remaining two died nearby.

In honor of the deceased, His Majesty the King ordered the provincial governor to place royal wreaths bestowed by His Majesty, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, and Her Majesty the Queen in front of the coffins. Members of the Royal Family also directed the provincial governor to place additional royal and gifted wreaths.

Prominent figures, including Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Paethongtarn Shinawatra, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Phumtham Wechayachai, acting Prime Minister, Cabinet members, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the National Police Commissioner, sent wreaths to express their condolences.

During the ceremony, officials from various agencies and royal volunteers collaborated to assist attendees, ensuring preparations were complete for the royal cremation ceremony scheduled for the afternoon.