Prachuap Khiri Khan: The National Police Chief has ordered compensation and an urgent investigation following a police helicopter crash that claimed the lives of three officers. This tragic incident occurred in Ban Nong Kok, Ao Noi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, when a Royal Thai Police helicopter exploded mid-air.

According to Thai News Agency, the helicopter involved was a Bell 212, which was on a return trip to the Border Patrol Police Unit in Kanchanaburi Province from Surat Thani Province. The crash resulted in the deaths of two pilots, Pol. Lt. Pratuang Chuleut and Pol. Lt. Songphon Boonchai, and one mechanic, Pol. Lt. Tinkrit Suwannoi. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing an explosion in the sky before seeing the helicopter crash to the ground and catch fire. The Royal Thai Police Facebook page shared a message from Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and emphasizing the urgency of investigating the accident’s cause and providing assistance to the affected families.

The bodies of the deceased have been transported to Hua Hin Hospital for autopsy, pending collection by their families for religious ceremonies. The Royal Thai Police Office has announced financial assistance and posthumous promotions for the officers. Pol. Lt. Col. Pratuang Chuleut and Pol. Lt. Songphon Boonchai will each receive 1.4 million baht and promotions to higher ranks. Pol. Lt. Tinkrit Suwannoi will receive 1.9 million baht and a promotion to Police Lieutenant Colonel.