Clashes Erupt At Chinese Consulate Over Mining Pollution
Fifty environmental activists clashed with police at China's Chiang Mai consulate on July 6 while delivering a petition against upstream mining pollution contaminating Thailand's northern rivers, injuring two protesters.
Clashes erupt at Chinese Consulate in Chiang Mai, leaving two protesters injured after demonstrators delivered a petition opposing mining operations that have caused toxic contamination affecting Thailand.
On July 6, 2026, approximately 50 members of a network protecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers traveled to the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai to submit a letter demanding action on water contamination. The activists say the pollution stems from upstream mining operations in Myanmar funded by Chinese investors.
During the gathering outside the consulate, a scuffle broke out between protesters and police tasked with controlling the area, resulting in two injuries. However, the overall situation remained controlled with no further violence.
The network later delivered their petition through representatives of Chiang Mai provincial administration and the Chinese consulate, who accepted the letter as the consulate was closed that day. After submitting the petition, protesters stood in silent tribute to symbolically express concern about the contamination and violence affecting the region before peacefully dispersing.
The network reaffirmed its call on the Chinese government and relevant authorities to urgently investigate and resolve toxic pollution in the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers, which threatens the environment and way of life for people in northern Thailand.
