Armed Robbery, 10 Forest Officials Tied Up, 4 Residences Burned Down

[Georgealbert]

 

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

In a shocking escalation of violence in the southern province of Narathiwat, over 10 armed assailants stormed the Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary, taking 10 forest officials hostage and tying them up before setting fire to four staff residences. The group made off with 10 shotguns before fleeing into the nearby forest.

 

The incident took place at approximately 28:30 on September 21,  in Bala Village, Moo 5, Lo Chut Subdistrict, Waeng District. Armed with firearms, the attackers overpowered the forest sanctuary staff, restraining them by tying their hands and feet. After looting 10 shotguns, the assailants set fire to four residences belonging to the staff, completely destroying them.

 

 

The 10 forest officials, after managing to free themselves from their restraints, quickly contacted local authorities, including the police from the Buketa Police Station, military forces, and civil defense units. Firefighters were dispatched to the scene to extinguish the flames, while security forces have cordoned off the area for further investigation, scheduled to begin early morning.

 

In response, Police Major General Maitree Santayakul, Commander of Narathiwat Provincial Police, has issued an urgent alert to all police stations across the province’s 13 districts. He has called for collaboration between police, military, and civil authorities to remain on high alert, fearing that this attack may be part of a coordinated effort targeting forest units in the region.
 

In particular, vulnerable operational bases are being urged to strengthen their defensive measures, ensuring a quick and effective response in case of further incidents. 

 

-- 2024-09-22