Crime Gunmen Attack Forest Protection Office in Tak Province

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Gunmen launched a brazen late-night attack on the Phalado Forest Protection Unit office in the Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak province, prompting an exchange of gunfire with on-duty rangers. No injuries were reported, but the attack has raised concerns over escalating violence linked to illegal logging.

 

At approximately 00:25 on 2 July, two armed men riding a motorcycle opened fire on the ranger office located in Moo 11, Mae Tuen subdistrict, Mae Ramat district. Officials responded by firing warning shots, causing the assailants to flee the scene.

 

A subsequent investigation of the area uncovered damage to the office building, including bullet holes in the glass windows and walls, as well as buckshot marks on a nearby mango tree. Spent shells and shell casings were also recovered. Evidence suggested that the gunmen’s motorcycle had fallen during their escape.

 

Authorities suspect the attack was carried out by individuals involved in illegal rosewood logging in the area. The assault is being treated as a deliberate act of intimidation against forest rangers.

 

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, has condemned the attack and ordered urgent coordination with police to bring the perpetrators to justice. He described the incident as a flagrant show of disrespect for the rule of law and a direct threat to officers protecting Thailand’s natural heritage.

 

“This kind of lawlessness and intimidation cannot be tolerated,” he said. “The offenders must be swiftly apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

 

Attapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, echoed the minister’s sentiments. He expressed concern for the safety of rangers and praised their dedication and bravery in the face of danger.

 

Head of the Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary, Mr. Pranchai Siriphut, confirmed that the local police in Mae Ramat are now conducting a full investigation. Officers have collected forensic evidence from the scene and logged the incident with local authorities.

 

The Department of National Parks and the Ministry of Natural Resources have also issued guidance to forest protection personnel, urging them to exercise extreme caution during patrols and daily duties.

 

The Mae Ramat district has long struggled with illegal logging operations, often involving well-organised groups. This latest attack is viewed as part of a broader pattern of escalating threats against frontline conservation workers in protected forest zones.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-03