Arrests made in MP ambush case

The Fourth Army Region commander confirmed the arrest of four suspects linked to the attempted assassination of Narathiwat MP Kamonsak Leewamoh, as authorities continue to hunt for a fifth suspect.

One of the suspects in custody was identified as Thanaphat Watthanaphinyo, a former ranger arrested in Kanchanaburi. He has confessed to taking part in the March 20 ambush after intermediaries hired him, they said.

Authorities also arrested an alleged coordinator, the driver of the vehicle used in the attack, and the owner of a garage accused of dismantling the getaway car. The remaining suspect, a former naval reconnaissance officer, remains at large.

At a press briefing on Monday, Fourth Army Region commander Lt Gen Narathip Phoynok said investigators had determined the attackers used a government vehicle belonging to the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) in Narathiwat.

Commander Montri Toprasert, an Isoc officer, lent out the vehicle in violation of regulations.

Lt Gen Narathip rejected allegations that military officials had tried to shield those involved, adding that authorities are handling the case with urgency and transparency.

“No protection will be given to wrongdoers,” he said, adding that officials found complicit, regardless of rank, will face legal action and strict disciplinary penalties.

Isoc Region 4 said Cmdr Montri could face three types of liability: civil liability for damage resulting from the unauthorised use of state property; disciplinary action for a serious breach of military rules; and criminal charges.

This is pending findings on whether he had prior knowledge of or involvement in the attack. Additional charges may include malfeasance and failure to safeguard state assets.

Addressing criticism over alleged preferential treatment, Lt Gen Narathip said authorities had applied no double standards and had already subjected the officer to extensive questioning under martial law procedures.

Investigators said forensic evidence from the vehicle has played a key role in linking the suspects.

Lt Gen Narathip said the shooting was a personal criminal act involving the misuse of state resources, not an official operation.

He urged the public to remain confident as authorities work to bring all those responsible to justice.