Community Gunfire Crosses into Thailand as Lao Military Base Attacked Near Chiang Rai Border

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Multiple explosions and bursts of gunfire were reported on the 3 May, near the Thai-Lao border in Chiang Rai province, following what appeared to be a coordinated attack on several positions of the Lao military directly across from Wiang Kaen district.

 

At approximately 22:30, residents of Ban Romfahphamon village in Moo 15, Por sub-district, reported a loud exchange of gunfire from across the Mekong River. Shortly afterwards, bullets reportedly pierced the roof of a local home. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained.

 

The origin of the attack is believed to be in the area of Ban Phu Pha Mon, located in Pak Tha District, Bokeo Province of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), just across the border from Thailand. The clash appeared to have occurred about two kilometres from the Thai border.

 

In response, Major General Kidakorn Chantra, Commander of the Pha Muang Task Force, instructed Colonel Pairat Srichaiwan, Commanding Officer of the 31st Ranger Regiment Task Force, to monitor the situation closely. Thai military personnel have since increased their presence along the border to prevent any potential spillover of violence.

 

In a formal communication, Major General Kidakorn also contacted his Lao counterpart, the head of the coordination team for the Lao-Thai border in Bokeo Province, expressing concern over the cross-border trajectory of the gunfire. He urged the Lao side to investigate the incident thoroughly and to take precautionary measures to prevent harm to Thai civilians and maintain peace in the border region.

 

The incident has raised concern among residents, especially given the proximity of the gunfire. Thai authorities continue to monitor the area with heightened vigilance and have requested timely updates from their Lao counterparts should any further military activity occur.

 

The situation remains under close observation by Thai security forces, with a continued emphasis on public safety and cross-border coordination.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-05.

 

 

 

[BritManToo]

Who was attacking the Lao military?

And why?

[fredwiggy]

10 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

Who was attacking the Lao military?

And why?

Hmong rebels have been at it against the military for awhile, so likely them. Old school hatred still in some perhaps?

[Georgealbert]

6 minutes ago, fredwiggy said:

Hmong rebels have been at it against the military for awhile, so likely them. Old school hatred still in some perhaps?

Fully agree. No details released by the military, but attacks by small Hmong insurgency groups are not uncommon in certain parts of Loas.

[fredwiggy]

12 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

Fully agree. No details released by the military, but attacks by small Hmong insurgency groups are not uncommon in certain parts of Loas.

A lot of people don't know this happens, just like it does in Myanmar but on a much smaller scale, with only a few involved.