At 10:00 PM on May 21, Colonel Kiattisak Neewong, spokesperson for the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Command, provided an update on the shooting incident involving a paramilitary ranger from Ranger Company 4215, Special Task Force Regiment 42, based in Ban Nam Bo, Panare District, Pattani Province.
The incident began when two rangers, Pvt. Pongdet Nanaewsuk and Sgt. Sarawut Kaewchanrit, went to inspect a malfunctioning water pump located outside the base. Before leaving, they informed Pvt. Prawit Liamphon, who was on guard duty at the time.
As Pvt. Pongdet was approaching the pump, Pvt. Prawit unexpectedly opened fire, injuring him in the abdomen and arm. The suspect then fled the scene with his weapon.
Other personnel at the base promptly administered first aid and transported the injured to Pattani Hospital, where he is now in stable condition.
Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive. Preliminary questioning of the victim revealed no personal conflict with the shooter. Special Task Force Regiment 42 has coordinated with local police and community leaders to track down the suspect, who was believed to be hiding nearby.
At approximately 9:40 PM, Pvt. Prawit surrendered to the commander of Ranger Regiment 42 and was subsequently handed over to the police for legal proceedings.