Two Injured In Clash Between Protesters And Police At China Consulate
Two protesters were injured in a clash with police outside Chiang Mai's Chinese Consulate on July 6 as demonstrators protested alleged toxic mining contamination from upstream operations in Myanmar affecting Thai waterways.
CHIANG MAI — Tensions flared in Chiang Mai on July 6, 2026, after two protesters were injured when police clashed with demonstrators gathered outside the Chinese Consulate General to protest alleged toxic contamination from mining operations affecting Thailand.
Approximately 50 members of the People's Network to Protect the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong Rivers assembled at the consulate to deliver a petition demanding action against chemical pollution in local waterways. Their signs read "stop toxic mine" and "When will China be truthful?"
The group alleges that pollution originates from upstream mining operations in Myanmar involving Chinese investors. A scuffle broke out between demonstrators and police securing the area, leaving two protesters injured. The situation did not escalate further, and no additional violence occurred.
Since the Chinese Consulate General was closed, provincial administration officials and a consulate representative accepted the petition on behalf of the protesters. After submitting their demands, demonstrators held a moment of silence to honor those affected by the contamination and the violence, then dispersed peacefully.
The network renewed calls for the Chinese government and relevant authorities to investigate and address the toxic contamination affecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong rivers, citing severe damage to the environment and livelihoods of northern Thai communities.
