KANCHANABURI, Thailand – Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has announced the successful rescue of three national park officials who went missing during a patrol in Kanchanaburi province. On August 12, 2026, the Minister confirmed that the three officers were found safe and have reestablished contact with their unit. The Thong Pha Phum National Park officials had been out of contact since August 9, after separating from their main patrol on August 8 to inspect the Huai Kroeng Klae area, a known site for illegal mining.
The search operation was hampered by complex terrain, deep valleys, and severe weather, which limited both ground and aerial access. The Protected Area Regional Office 3 established a command center and deployed 45 personnel from the Border Patrol Police, Lat Ya Task Force, and nearby national parks to coordinate the rescue. After their safe return, the Minister instructed relevant agencies to monitor the health of the three officials. He also extended his gratitude to all participating search and rescue teams for their swift and effective collaboration in bringing the personnel back safely. (NNT)
