MEDIA STATEMENT
We are deeply concerned about the latest atrocity in Narathiwat where three unarmed villagers were being killed by Thai security personals on 16th December 2019.
The incidence occurred at the mountainous jungle of Tawae, Bo-ngor in the district of Ranget. The three victims, allegedly identified as insurgents by the rangers, were wood cutters aged between 24 and 27. They were shot at closed range without prior questioning nor investigation.
Three others managed to escape and the brutal massacre was exposed. Some media reported the incidence as fire-exchange between the insurgents and the rangers.
Upon realising their mistakes the rangers planted weapons and ammunition around the corpses and claimed that they were being fired at by the “insurgents”. The villagers demanded explanation and investigation.
This was not the first time similar massacres occurred. Previously there were Thung Yang Deng, Pulot Puyo, Sri Sakorn incidences plus many others.
We demand full and transparent investigation by the government of Thailand and the findings made known to public. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. The military must be held accountable for civilian lost. Impunity must end.
We extend our condolences to the families of the victims and pray that the Bongo incidence will be the last.
Abu Hafez Al-Hakim
MARA Patani
18th December 2019.
