Pattani: Authorities are hunting for four assailants who ambushed and opened fire on a police sergeant from Ratapanyang Police Station as he was returning home. The sergeant was killed in his vehicle. The attack is believed to be the work of a local insurgent group.

According to Thai News Agency, four armed assailants, disguised as electricians, ambushed and shot at the vehicle of Police Sergeant Mayaki Diyoh, an officer from Ratapanyang Police Station in Yaharing District, Pattani Province. The incident occurred at the Ban Muang Wan intersection in Mayo District on the evening of May 4th. Sergeant Mayaki died at the scene after being shot multiple times in the torso and head.

The investigation revealed that Sergeant Mayaki was driving from Ratapanyang Police Station to his home in Mayo District when the assailants, pretending to repair a power pole, opened fire as he slowed down to turn. The attackers, divided into two groups, used concealed firearms to shoot at the car from multiple angles. Despite Sergeant Mayaki's attempt to escape, he was shot again at close range, resulting in his death. The assailants fled on two motorcycles.

Investigators from Mayo Police Station and Pattani Provincial Police are actively pursuing the perpetrators, analyzing CCTV footage from the scene and along the escape routes used by the suspects. Authorities suspect that the attack involved more than the four known assailants and was orchestrated by an insurgent group aiming to harm officers and create unrest. The attackers were aware of Sergeant Mayaki's regular route, enabling them to plan the ambush effectively.

Forensic analysis of bullet casings found at the scene is underway to link the attack to the perpetrators. The same group is suspected of previous attacks, including the destruction of CCTV cameras in the area. Security officials have instructed all units to be vigilant for suspicious activity, as the group has used various disguises, including dressing as electricians, to carry out their attacks without raising suspicion.