BANGKOK, Thailand – A Royal Thai Navy officer has been fatally wounded during weapons preparation while serving on the Thai–Cambodian border. Navy Spokesperson Admiral Pasukree Wilairak identified the officer as Acting Sub-Lieutenant Phattharawut Rattanawong of the 1st Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment. He was serving as commander of a rear-area protection unit under the Special Anti-Aircraft Battalion deployed in Surin province during border operations.
The incident occurred on August 2 at approximately 7:00 p.m., while Acting Sub-Lieutenant Phattharawut was conducting a routine inspection of weapon readiness. He was transported immediately to a local hospital near the border for emergency treatment.
On August 7, the injured officer was transferred to Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital in Sattahip district, Chon Buri province, for advanced medical care. Despite sustained efforts by medical personnel, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Phattharawut succumbed to his injuries on August 8.
Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Jirapol Wongwit expressed condolences on behalf of the Navy and directed that all relevant procedures be expedited to ensure the officer’s family receives full entitlements, welfare benefits, and appropriate support. (NNT)
