Songkhla: The Election Commission condemned the violence against officials on duty at a polling station in Songkhla Province. ‘Itthiphon’ directly ordered the Director of the Election Commission for Songkhla Province to provide encouragement and prepare to consider compensation for the injured police officers.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Nisathit Kongthep, from the 43rd Border Patrol Police Company, was assigned to maintain security during the municipal council and mayoral elections at Polling Unit 7, Phawong Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla District. He was assaulted by a group after prohibiting unauthorized individuals from entering the polling unit, which led to dissatisfaction among the crowd.

The group attacked and injured him while he was on duty, prompting his admission to Songkhla Hospital. The Election Commission expressed deep concern and regret, condemning the violence against officials diligently performing their duties. They vowed to pursue legal action against those responsible.

Mr. Ittiporn Boonprakong, Chairman of the Election Commission, expressed his concern to Pol. Lt. Nitsathit Kongthep and assigned Pol. Lt. Somnuk Kulmani and his team to deliver a fruit basket and 5,000 baht in morale-boosting funds, along with a contribution of 10,000 baht from the Songkhla Provincial Election Commission staff, totaling 15,000 baht, as initial assistance. He assured that the Election Commission will not overlook damages incurred during election duties and called for public cooperation to ensure violence-free elections.

The Election Commission has regulations from 2012 for compensating election-related injury victims, providing 10,000 baht for serious injuries and 5,000 baht for non-serious injuries, with potential compensation up to 100,000 baht for severe, disabling injuries.