The spokesperson for the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 4 reported on the robbery of firearms and the burning of the staff quarters at Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Pattani, asserting that the perpetrators acted as a group and targeted vulnerable locations.
On September 23, Colonel Aekawit Chobsuphol from ISOC Region 4 revealed details of the incident involving armed robbers who stole firearms and set fire to the staff housing at Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Narathiwat. The attack resulted in damage to three houses, and explosives were used to break into a safe storing shotguns. The robbers also staged a diversion, planting a suspicious object to lure officials into investigating. Security forces have cordoned off the area for thorough investigation to prevent further incidents.
This morning, security personnel held ongoing meetings to monitor the situation and directed investigations in the area for safety. Following the attack, the assailants left behind two detonated bombs at the scene. The crime scene is being cleared to gather evidence for further inquiry, in adherence to high safety measures.
The stolen firearms included about 10 shotguns stored in a weapons cabinet, one officer’s personal handgun, and some personal belongings. Fortunately, there were no casualties among the staff. The perpetrators managed to bind the officials present and attempted to take all state-owned weapons, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The incident reflects ongoing attempts by criminals to exploit vulnerabilities and act during lapses in security.
Each incident has shown careful planning by the criminal group, who deliberately select vulnerable targets for their operations. The commander of Region 4 continues to emphasize the need for all personnel to remain vigilant and to coordinate with security forces. Increased security measures have been implemented across all units to ensure preparedness in safeguarding government facilities and public areas.
Furthermore, officials urged local residents not to panic about the incident, ensuring that they are doing their utmost to manage the situation. They are actively pursuing the culprits involved in this event. However, there is currently no confirmation on the exact motivations behind the robbery, though it is speculated that the firearms might be utilized for further criminal purposes. No possibilities have been ruled out at this time.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
