In Thailand, 3 Myanmar workers shot dead over noise complaint while drunk, village security team claims self-defense, Thai police yet to disclose action

In Chachoengsao Province, Thailand, three Myanmar migrant workers were shot dead and another Myanmar national was seriously injured during a clash between Myanmar migrant workers, who were allegedly making noise while drinking, and the village security team, the Thai police announced. The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. on June 27 in Ban Nong Nam Dam village, Koh Khanun sub-district. Upon receiving reports of a shooting, the police went to investigate and discovered the bodies of three Myanmar nationals. Although numerous gunshot wounds were found on the bodies of the deceased, their names and personal details have not yet been confirmed. Furthermore, a Thai national named Pichai Daphantha sustained severe stab wounds to his left side and was transported to Phanom Sarakham Hospital for treatment before the police arrived. The Thai police announced that they seized over 16 spent 9mm cartridges, a firearm, and a knife believed to have been used in the incident from the scene. It has been revealed that the perpetrator of the shooting of the Myanmar nationals is Theerapat Nopthao, a 24-year-old village security volunteer. According to his statement, he and a friend went to warn a group of migrant workers who were drinking and playing loud music near a residential area, which led to an argument. He further stated to the police that his friend was then hit with a bottle and, after falling to the ground, was further stabbed with a knife. Subsequently, as about 10 people armed with knives rushed towards him, he fired his gun in self-defense. Currently, the Thai forensic investigation team is continuing to collect evidence at the scene, and detailed investigations into the incident are ongoing. However, regarding this incident, the Thai police have not yet announced what charges will be filed against the perpetrator or whether any legal action has been taken.