Police Chief Mourns Family of School Director, Praises Bravery in Protecting Students Until the Last Moment

On February 12, 2026, Police Chief Kittarat Phanphet revealed details about an 18-year-old perpetrator who stormed Patong Prathan Khiriwat School in Hat Yai, Songkhla, taking teachers and students hostage before police could control the situation. The chief ordered an urgent nationwide review of prevention and intervention measures for similar incidents. Kittarat emphasized that the primary goal is to prevent loss of life for both civilians and officials, and called for more intensive and situation-specific tactical training. He defended the police response, explaining that the complex situation, where the perpetrator changed weapons and even seized a police firearm, required careful tactical consideration. The chief expressed deep sorrow for the loss of school director Sasiphat Sinsamosorn, praising her courage in protecting teachers and students until her final moment.