New District Chief Tackles Significant Challenges Amid Staff Morale Crisis
PUBLISHED: 10 Mar 2025 at 15:17
The Sungai Kolok district office in Narathiwat province has halted the issuance of border passes to Malaysia following a brutal attack by separatist insurgents over the weekend. The assault resulted in extensive damage to the office facilities, including the auditorium where border pass applications are processed.
The new district chief, Supeeyan Taemohseng, reported that the auditorium building was severely impacted when attackers detonated a bomb-laden vehicle at the site. He confirmed that alternative access to border passes remains available at other district offices in the province while a temporary processing area is being established behind the main conference center.
On average, approximately 300 individuals apply daily for border passes to travel to Kelantan state in Malaysia. However, the destruction of the ground floor of the main office has forced the suspension of revenue collection services.
During the attack, a group of ten armed insurgents arrived in a pickup truck, launching explosives and firing upon defense volunteers stationed at the district office. This violent encounter left two defense volunteers dead and 14 others wounded, including civilians. Additionally, multiple bomb incidents occurred in other locations within Sungai Kolok that same night.
The Malaysian government has since advised its citizens to avoid travel to southern Thailand. In response, Sungai Kolok Municipality has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or objects in their vicinity.
“Your cooperation is vital; please be observant for any unusual items near your homes,” the municipality announced.
New district chief Supeeyan Taemohseng addresses his staff on his first day amidst a morale crisis.
– A New Beginning for District Chief –
Mr. Supeeyan commenced his role as district chief on Monday after previously serving in a leadership position in neighboring Pattani province. He acknowledged the devastating impact of the recent violence on local officials and urged them to persist in their duties, assuring that the district office remains partially operational.
Efforts to clean up the destruction, including charred vehicles left behind from the attack, are already underway.
– Commitment to Student Safety –
In related news, Malaysian authorities have pledged to ensure the safety of Thai students studying in the country. Measures are being enacted to provide suitable accommodations for these students in light of safety concerns, as many cross the border daily to attend schools in Kelantan.
