Police Identify 14 Guns Used in Checkpoint Attack That Killed 5 Rangers

Investigators have completed ballistic analysis of the weapons used in the attack on Buketa Samee checkpoint in Tangyongmat subdistrict, Rangae district, Narathiwat province on July 22, which killed five ranger troops from the 4509th Ranger Company and injured six villagers. The examination identified 14 firearms—three types including M16s, AK-47s, and 9mm handguns—that fired over 200 rounds. One of the recovered weapons was previously used in the June 1 killing of Janae district official and his girlfriend. Authorities suspect 13 attackers operated in a coordinated network led by four commanders responsible for five Narathiwat districts, with each leader recruiting 2–3 members per township. Aseesan, one detained suspect, is believed to be a unit chief. Provincial authorities have ordered all 13 Narathiwat checkpoints to upgrade security with perimeter fencing, observation posts, and concrete barriers to prevent vehicle approach. Effective August 3, the 51 tambon administrators will focus solely on village protection duties with support from 33 officials, police, military, and civil servants, while maintaining closer community engagement. A three-province special operations task force is pursuing the four remaining leaders who fled into the Mao Ae hills along the Rangae–Janae–Srisakhon border; after two days of operations hampered by rain, no suspect movement has been detected. Rangers are patrolling to intercept any escape attempts and have asked villagers to avoid rubber tapping and orcharding unless essential, citing safety concerns.