On May 3, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in the southern provinces of Thailand, where gunmen opened fire on innocent civilians in the districts of Jalae and Tak Bai, Narathiwat. The attack left four people dead, including a 76-year-old woman and a 9-year-old girl, and several others injured. In response to this horrific act, Major General Phaisal Nuengsak, the Commander of the Fourth Army Region, swiftly visited the crime scenes to assess the situation and to reassure the local community.
During his visit, Major General Phaisal condemned the violence, labeling it as "inhumane, barbaric, and completely without humanity," emphasizing that such attacks on defenseless individuals are intolerable. He expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and vowed to ensure the safety of the citizens in the region.
In light of the recent violence, Major General Phaisal convened a meeting with security agencies to discuss strategies for maintaining peace and order in the area. The discussions focused on building trust with the predominantly Buddhist community, who continue to live and work in their hometowns despite the recent turmoil. The aim was to foster understanding and support among the residents, encouraging them to cooperate closely with the authorities and adhere to strict security measures.
"We will not allow barbaric acts to destroy the peace of our citizens," Major General Phaisal stated emphatically. He called for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The Fourth Army Region has established operational centers to assist citizens and to ensure comprehensive legal support for those affected by the violence.
Additionally, the military has intensified its efforts to track down the perpetrators of the attack, believing that the establishment of tactical command centers will help control the situation more effectively. Major General Phaisal reassured the public that all possible escape routes would be monitored and that any potential hideouts for the attackers would be thoroughly searched.
As security forces ramp up their operations, they are also being advised to exercise caution, especially in light of the possibility of retaliation from the attackers. The military is committed to protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring their safety around the clock.
Meanwhile, on May 4, 2025, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is scheduled to host the monthly program "Opportunities for Thailand with Prime Minister Srettha" at 8:00 AM. This program, which had been paused for a month due to the significant impact of the recent earthquake, will address various topics, including the aftermath of the earthquake that occurred at the end of March and the ongoing investigation into the collapse of the SAT building.
During the broadcast, the Prime Minister will also highlight the successful testing of the Cell Broadcast system, which took place on May 2, 2025. This system is intended to enhance threat prevention measures and ensure timely communication with citizens in case of emergencies.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister will discuss the implications of the United States' recent import tax policy, which poses potential economic challenges for Thailand and other countries. He has established a “Team Thailand” since January 6 to prepare for these challenges and has been engaging in informal negotiations to protect the nation's interests.
In addition to addressing economic concerns, the Prime Minister will promote the SML project, which aims to empower communities across the country by allowing them to identify and pursue their genuine needs. This initiative is designed to allocate budgets ranging from 200,000 to 400,000 baht through village funds.
Moreover, the Prime Minister will introduce the “ODOS Summer Camp” scholarship program, which offers over 928 scholarships for youth from every district nationwide, covering tuition fees, travel expenses, and meals. Applications for this program will be open until May 16, 2025, via the “Government App.”
Lastly, the Prime Minister will outline plans for the "Entertainment Complex" project, which aims to boost tourism and create new job opportunities without relying on government funding. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the Thai economy and provide employment for many citizens.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of violence in the south and prepares for the Prime Minister's address, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and supportive of one another. The government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Thais, particularly those in the affected regions.
