Report Thai Military Court's Verdict on Cadet's Death Sparks Outrage

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

BANGKOK - The Supreme Military Court has delivered its final verdict on the tragic 2017 death of army cadet Phakaphong "Mei" Tanyakan. Two senior cadets were found guilty of assaulting him, resulting in fines of 15,000 baht (approx. £354) each and suspended sentences of four months and 16 days. The sentences are suspended for two years, allowing them to continue their military careers.

 

Identified as Pipat and Phumipat, the cadets avoided further punishment due to their clean records. The court argued that their continued service would be more beneficial. Phakaphong’s death followed alleged “disciplinary punishment,” sparking public outcry over the lack of transparency.

 

The case was tried under military jurisdiction, with the initial trial at the Military Court of First Instance in 2018 and 2019. Assault charges were upheld, but due to insufficient eyewitnesses, other charges were dismissed. The Court of Appeal later confirmed portions of this decision.

 

The Supreme Military Court's ruling has not quelled public discontent. Phakaphong's mother, Mrs Sukanya, has openly questioned the judgement, pointing out the cadets’ responsibility to uphold the law. She highlighted the absence of any apology from the defendants, adding to her distress and mistrust.

 

Ms. Sukanya expressed her disbelief in the justice system, questioning the integrity of the involved officials and their capacity to serve the nation justly. She posed critical questions about their future roles and responsibilities if they are already breaking laws while in training positions, reported Bangkok Post.

 

The initial case included a third defendant, 2nd Lt Piyapong, whose indictment was dismissed by the court of first instance. This aspect of the case further amplifies concerns about accountability within military ranks.

 

The verdict raises important questions about military legal systems and the implications of allowing individuals who break rules to remain within the ranks. The suspended sentences and the lack of remorse from those responsible continue to fuel the conversation around justice for Phakaphong’s grieving family.

 

Public attention remains on how such cases are handled and whether military protocols sufficiently deter similar incidents in the future.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-23

 

 

[watchcat]

Good picture by Thai Rath,  👍.

[ikke1959]

Amazing Thailand

[JimHuaHin]

Yet another blow to the Thai Military's credibility.

 

But, as the people remain impoverished and uniformed, with little opportunity for a reasonable life, the Thai Military will continue to find recruits.