Authorities Dismantle Checkpoint After Deadly Attack in Narathiwat
Authorities permanently closed the Buekasamee checkpoint in Narathiwat after militants killed five ranger officers in a July attack, replacing it with a fortified bullet-resistant guardpost 200 meters away.
Authorities have ordered the permanent dismantling of the Buekasamee checkpoint following concerns about repeat attacks, and plan to replace it with a fortified bullet-resistant guardpost. Thirteen armed militants attacked the checkpoint in Rangae District, Narathiwat Province on July 22, killing five ranger officers and injuring six civilians. Police Colonel Suphachat Na Phatthalung, commander of Rangae Station, along with military and administrative officials, agreed to permanently close the checkpoint.
Workers have begun demolishing the tall watchtower that stood at the bridge entrance, which included a small shelter in front of the temporary residence of Sergeant Major Theerayuth Somkakaeng, one of the five ranger officers killed in the attack. Sunshades covering the checkpoint area have also been removed to prevent civilian casualties in future incidents.
In place of the dismantled checkpoint, Colonel Suphachat has introduced a red bullet-resistant guardpost—a reinforced rectangular steel container with specialized steel plating or thick concrete designed to withstand gunfire and explosions. A new checkpoint will be established approximately 200 meters away at the entrance to the Seepo Waterfall road, staffed by rotating police and military personnel around the clock. Three coordinated forces will also conduct roving patrols to inspect vehicles and individuals entering and exiting the municipality, aiming to intercept any insurgents attempting to infiltrate civilian populations and reassure residents that normal life can continue safely.
