Saba Yoi: The National Human Rights Commission has condemned the shooting of a novice monk in Saba Yoi District, Songkhla Province, which resulted in his death. The commission has called for the swift punishment of the perpetrators and encouraged local residents amidst the tragedy.

According to Thai News Agency, the incident involved unidentified assailants opening fire on the pickup truck of Pol. Lt. Wattana Chumapan, a police officer at Saba Yoi Police Station. The attack occurred while he was transporting six monks and novices from Wat Ko Aphinihan to go on an alms round in Saba Yoi Subdistrict Municipality. The attack, which took place on the morning of April 22, 2025, claimed the life of novice Phongkorn Chumapan, aged 16, who was the son of Pol. Lt. Wattana. The other novices sustained injuries.

The National Human Rights Commission highlighted the importance of respecting and protecting religious individuals of all faiths in the multicultural region of the three southern border provinces. The commission expressed concern that these individuals, who serve as spiritual support for many, should not be subjected to harm or insult.

The commission further condemned the violent act, noting that the victims were children and youths. The NHRC expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and injured novices, as well as to the local community affected by the pervasive sense of insecurity.

The NHRC called upon relevant agencies to conduct an urgent investigation to bring those responsible to justice. They emphasized the need for enhanced protection measures and urged for comprehensive compensation for the victims and their families.

The NHRC affirmed its commitment to closely monitor human rights violations in the area and expressed readiness to support governmental efforts to establish peace in the southern border provinces.