Border Patrol Officer Killed in Lorry Collision While on Duty in Tak Province

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A Border Patrol Police officer, Sub-Lieutenant Phitakkiat Thaonoi, lost his life when a lorry carrying maize lost control and struck him while he was performing his duties at a checkpoint near the Thai- Myanmar border. The incident occurred at 21:30 on January 26, at Ban Mae Kut Sam Tha checkpoint in Mae Kasa Subdistrict, Mae Sot District, Tak.

 

Sub-Lieutenant Phitakkiat, aged 57, was conducting routine screening of vehicles and foreign nationals at kilometre marker 16 along Asian Highway 105 when the lorry driver, travelling at high speed, veered out of control across the opposite lane and hit him. Despite immediate efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

 

On 27 January, Police Lieutenant General Nitnai Langyanai, Commissioner of the Border Patrol Police, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Sub-Lieutenant Phitakkiat. Lt. Gen. Nitnai honoured the officer as a courageous protector of public safety who fulfilled his duties with dedication and strength until his final moments.

 

The Border Patrol Police Division 34 has been instructed to ensure that Sub-Lieutenant Phitakkiat is honoured with a proper funeral ceremony. Additionally, the Border Patrol Police Headquarters has pledged to provide full benefits and welfare support to his family.

 

The checkpoint where the accident occurred was established by Border Patrol Police Company 346 as part of operations under the orders of Police General Kittirat Phanphet, the National Police Chief, and the Thai-Myanmar Border Command Centre in Tak Province. The checkpoint was equipped with appropriate signage and lighting, and officers used flashlights to signal vehicles to stop, adhering to national police protocols.

 

Following the collision, the lorry driver was immediately taken into custody, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident and to implement measures to prevent similar in the future.

 

Sub-Lieutenant Phitakkiat began his career with Border Patrol Police Company 347 in Umphang District, Tak Province, on 1 February 1992. At the time of his death, he was serving as Deputy Inspector (Operations) with Division 34 and was stationed at the Mae Kut Sam Tha operational base. His career spanned 32 years and 11 months, during which he was recognised for his dedication and service.

 

He is survived by his wife and two children, who are eligible for recruitment into the police force under the benefits scheme for the families of fallen officers.

 

-- 2025-01-28