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Former Hatyai Wittayalai Teacher Flees Thailand Following Threats

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Former Hatyai Wittayalai Teacher Flees Thailand Following Threats

A former South African teacher at Hatyai Wittayalai School has left Thailand after allegedly threatening school staff via an online group.

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 9, 2026, a former English teacher at Hatyai Wittayalai School in Songkhla, identified as Mr. Pieter, has departed the country. Authorities at Hat Yai Police Station confirmed that the individual exited Thailand via the Padang Besar border checkpoint on July 19, 2026, at 2:39 PM.

This development follows reports that the former teacher sent messages to an open Line group threatening to shoot school staff and administrators, accompanied by images of a firearm. In response to the threats, the school transitioned to online learning to ensure the safety of its students and faculty. While the school has denied the former teacher's allegations and maintains that it followed all proper regulations, the incident has caused significant distress among the school community, where the teacher was previously perceived as friendly and kind.

For residents and visitors in the Hat Yai area, the school has implemented strict security measures, including closed access points and continuous police patrols around the campus to maintain safety and public confidence. As of now, authorities are continuing to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. It remains to be confirmed what further legal actions may be taken against the individual, given his departure from the country prior to the public disclosure of the threats.