On April 19, 2025, a significant discovery of ordnance was made by the roadside in Moo 4, Tambon Jan, Amphoe Khao Chaison, Changwat Songkhla, raising concerns among local authorities and residents alike. The police and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit promptly responded to the alarming report, which was received at 9:00 AM by police station 191.
According to a report from Ch7HD, the cache of explosives included a total of 42 M79 grenades and three 60mm mortar rounds. Despite being classified as "used," these items still posed a danger due to the presence of explosive materials, even though their detonators had been destroyed. The immediate concern was the potential risk they presented to the local community.
Upon arriving at the scene, EOD officers took swift action to cordon off the area, preventing any unauthorized access. This precaution was essential to ensure the safety of the public while the team conducted their investigation. The police worked alongside local military officials and administrative personnel to secure the site and assess the situation thoroughly.
After a careful examination lasting approximately 15 minutes, the EOD unit confirmed the nature of the ordnance. The grenades, identified as M79s, are a type of explosive weapon typically used in military operations, while the mortar rounds are standard artillery munitions. The EOD team noted that, although the explosives had been previously used, the remaining explosive material still posed a serious threat.
As the investigation progressed, EOD team leader, Police Major Thanwa Wongnum, provided insights into the situation. He emphasized the importance of public safety, urging local residents not to attempt to collect or handle any potentially dangerous materials they might encounter. "If anyone finds such items, they should report them to the police immediately and not attempt to keep or sell them," he warned, highlighting the legal and safety implications of mishandling ordnance.
By 12:00 PM, the EOD unit had successfully cleared the area of all identified ordnance. The collected explosives were carefully placed in sand-filled containers to prevent accidental detonation during transport. The plan was to transport the ordnance to the Phu Khao Kong Thap Rua field or the Tor. 16 field, where they would be safely detonated in a controlled environment.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in managing unexploded ordnance and ensuring public safety. The presence of military-grade explosives in civilian areas is a reminder of the potential dangers that can arise from past conflicts or military training exercises.
As the situation unfolded, the police and EOD units remained vigilant, conducting thorough inspections of the surrounding area to ensure no additional explosives were left behind. Their proactive approach not only mitigated immediate risks but also served as a crucial educational moment for the community.
The discovery of these explosives has sparked discussions among residents about the importance of safety and awareness regarding ordnance. Many locals expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by law enforcement and EOD teams, recognizing the potential for disaster had the explosives been mishandled.
In light of this incident, local authorities are now considering increased public education campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance. Such initiatives aim to empower residents with knowledge about how to identify and report suspicious items, thereby enhancing community safety.
While the immediate crisis has been resolved, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in areas that may be affected by military activity. As communities continue to navigate the complexities of safety and security, collaboration between law enforcement, military officials, and the public will be key in preventing future occurrences.
In conclusion, the discovery of ordnance in Moo 4, Tambon Jan, highlights the ongoing risks associated with unexploded military munitions. The swift response from police and EOD units not only prevented potential harm but also provided an opportunity for community engagement and education. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and to report any suspicious items to authorities, ensuring a safer environment for all.
