Picture courtesy of Komchadluek 

 

Growing discrepancies between the official flood death toll and claims from rescue volunteers have intensified public concern over the true scale of the Hat Yai disaster. The Public Health Ministry confirmed that the death toll from flooding in eight southern provinces has reached 170, with the most deaths recorded in Songkhla, totalling 140. Deputy permanent secretary Dr Sakda Alapach stated that they expected a slight increase in the figure as residents returned home.

 

However, rescue volunteers claim the real number is significantly higher. Anyawuth Phoamphai, a Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteer, alleged that officials obstructed efforts to retrieve bodies from inundated zones, suggesting fears of criticism over the government's disaster response. His comments have gone viral, fuelling further suspicion and anger among the flood-affected communities.

 

Former deputy police chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn claims the death toll might actually reach up to 1,000, citing information from local residents and rescue personnel. He accused the government of withholding the true number amid criticism of its flood response. Pol Gen Surachate also expressed concern over how deaths are classified, as some fatalities may have occurred indirectly due to flood-related obstacles to medical care.

 

Dr Sakda countered claims of a cover-up, stating that multiple agencies were involved in managing the disaster, making it impossible to hide facts. He noted that hospitals have prepared additional facilities for more victims if required. Senate Deputy Speaker Gen Kriangkrai Srirak urged media scrutiny of all claims to prevent the spread of unsubstantiated reports that could increase public distress.

 

The situation remains tense as officials and volunteers continue their efforts in flood-ravaged areas, with ongoing debates over the actual impact of the disaster, reported Bangkok Post.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Official flood death toll in Hat Yai stands at 170, while volunteers claim it is higher.
• Concerns grow over possible misinformation and government transparency.
• Media urged to verify information to avoid public distress and misinformation.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-02

 

 

 

 

of coarse there is a cover up!!,  its bad for the voters  to see the real truth.