NARATHIWAT, Thailand — A deadly attack on a security checkpoint in Thailand’s southern province of Narathiwat claimed the lives of five paramilitary rangers on Wednesday evening after a group of armed assailants launched a coordinated assault using gunfire and explosive devices.
According to preliminary reports, six attackers dressed in black opened fire on the checkpoint before hurling pipe bombs at security personnel stationed there. The sudden assault triggered a fierce response from officers at the scene, though the attackers managed to flee shortly after the attack.
Authorities also confirmed that five civilians, including two young boys, were injured during the incident. Emergency medical teams responded quickly, providing treatment to the wounded before transporting them to nearby hospitals. Officials have not released updates on the conditions of those injured.
Following the attack, security forces immediately sealed off the surrounding area and established additional checkpoints along nearby roads to prevent the suspects from escaping. Investigators believe the attackers fled toward Dusongyo via Highway 4055, prompting an extensive search operation involving military personnel, police officers, and specialized security units.
Forensic experts have been deployed to examine the crime scene, where they are collecting ballistic evidence, explosive fragments, and other materials that may assist in identifying those responsible. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Authorities have significantly increased security throughout Narathiwat and neighboring districts, with additional patrols deployed to safeguard public areas and transportation routes. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the manhunt continues.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, and officials have not publicly identified the suspects. The investigation remains active as security agencies work to determine the motive behind the assault and bring those responsible to justice.
The attack underscores the continuing security challenges in Thailand’s southern border provinces, where authorities remain on heightened alert in response to periodic outbreaks of violence. Officials have pledged to continue the investigation and provide further updates as new information becomes available.
