Assembly Of Poor Condemns Police Violence At Chiang Mai Protest
Police clashed with about 50 environmental protesters at the Chinese consulate in Chiang Mai on July 6, injuring two activists and prompting the Assembly of the Poor to condemn the use of force against a peaceful gathering over cross-border
On July 6, 2025, approximately 50 members of a coalition protecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong rivers traveled to the Chinese consulate general in Chiang Mai to file a petition demanding resolution of water contamination problems. The peaceful gathering was met with force by more than 150 Chiang Mai police officers, resulting in clashes that left two protesters injured, including one with a broken arm and another with a dislocated shoulder.
The Assembly of the Poor issued a statement condemning the violence and demanding immediate state accountability. The group emphasized that peaceful assembly is a constitutional right and basic freedom, and argued that the government's actions reflect a failure to respect and protect citizens' right to peaceful protest. They called on relevant agencies to work together to address the cross-border pollution issue that prompted the demonstration.
