Three Missing National Park Rangers Found Safe in Kanchanaburi
Three rangers missing for days while patrolling illegal gold mining areas in Kanchanaburi's Thong Pha Phum National Park have been found safe after a large-scale rescue operation. Difficult terrain and bad weather had hampered the search un
Three rangers from Thong Pha Phum National Park have been found safe after going missing during a patrol operation aimed at stopping illegal gold mining activities. Minister Suchart Chomklin reported that the three officers—Somchai Suntad (44), Pornpavit Chimplee (31), and Pajeu Sangkalawikhul (29)—separated from their main patrol unit on August 8 to conduct surveillance in the mountainous Kel Geering stream area, a hotspot for illegal gold panning and mining. They lost contact after August 9. The terrain in the area is complex with numerous streams and ravines, and heavy rain and stormy weather had made travel and air support extremely difficult. A coordinated search operation was launched, bringing together 45 personnel from the Border Patrol Police, special operations units, and several national parks. A command center was established to coordinate the full-scale rescue effort. The search was successful, with all three rangers located and confirmed safe. They have since returned to their unit and made contact with their command. The minister has instructed agencies to monitor the officers' physical condition and safety closely, and expressed gratitude to all personnel involved in the successful rescue operation.
