ISOC Region 4 Forward Urges Patience for Forensic Results in Southern Thailand Shooting Allegations

On August 25, 2026, Colonel Ekwarit Chobchupol, Deputy Spokesperson for the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 4 Forward, addressed ongoing investigations into recent unrest in Thailand’s southern border provinces. The statement follows public allegations that security personnel fired upon civilians from a helicopter, including reports suggesting an air force sergeant used an M16 rifle during the incident.

Colonel Ekwarit stated that police are currently gathering evidence and conducting interviews according to legal procedures. Regarding calls for a special investigative committee, the spokesperson noted that authorities are relying on the existing judicial process rather than establishing a new panel at this time. He dismissed the circulating rumors as self-serving claims, asserting that forensic science will provide the definitive account of the event. When questioned about the nature of the injuries, the spokesperson referenced a previous statement from the Director of Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Hospital, who indicated that the wounds did not appear to be caused by high-caliber military-grade weaponry, though a final determination awaits forensic confirmation.

For residents and travelers in the region, this situation highlights the importance of relying on official judicial findings rather than unverified reports during periods of unrest. While the investigation is ongoing, the exact circumstances of the shooting remain unconfirmed, and the public is advised to monitor official updates as forensic results are processed.