PUBLISHED: 22 Jul 2024 at 15:57
Legal representatives of Tak Bai massacre victims are optimistic as the provincial court gears up to make a pivotal decision on whether to accept their case for trial, with a verdict expected in late August. The urgency is underscored by the impending expiration of the statute of limitations.
Lawyer Pornpen Khongkachonkiet expressed confidence that this latest push would compel the judicial system to adequately address the case.
The comments followed a recent online forum addressing the issue, which took place after the Narathiwat Provincial Court announced it would deliberate on the case’s acceptance on August 23, following a preliminary hearing last week.
Two prominent foundations are assisting 48 individuals in filing a lawsuit against nine senior officials alleged to be responsible for the deaths of 85 protesters during an October 25, 2004 demonstration outside the Tak Bai police station.
The protest erupted after the police detained six defense volunteers, leading to a violent crackdown that resulted in six deaths from gunfire, while 78 others were crushed or suffocated due to overcrowding in military transport vehicles. Another protester succumbed to injuries in the hospital.
Ratsada Manooratsada, from the Lawyers Council of Thailand, who witnessed the aftermath shortly after the event, expressed hope that justice would be served, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
He praised the fortitude of the 48 villagers for their resolve to confront the authorities implicated in these tragic events. The lawsuit cites charges of murder, unlawful detention, and misconduct against the involved officials.
While the identities of the nine officials remain undisclosed, the Muslim Attorney Centre Foundation confirmed that they are named in a government report regarding the incident, which includes then 4th Army Region Commander Lt Gen Pisan Wattanawongkiri and then 5th Infantry Division Commander Maj Gen Chalermchai Wirunpeth.
Abdulqahhar Arwaeputeh of the Muslim Attorney Centre Foundation highlighted that the villagers retain the right to appeal if the court decides against proceeding with the trial on August 23.
As the 20th anniversary of the Tak Bai tragedy approaches, the looming October 25 deadline for legal action adds urgency, with potential implications for justice for the victims and their families.
