BANGKOK – In a harrowing incident that gripped southern Thailand, police finally apprehended a gunman who opened fire at a school in Songkhla province, taking teachers and students hostage. The dramatic standoff unfolded on Wednesday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Provincial authorities first alerted the public via social media about the attack at Patong Pratharn Khiriwat School in Tambon Patong, Hat Yai district. Eyewitness accounts and local reports described how the armed individual stormed the premises just as classes were wrapping up for the day, firing shots and barricading himself with captives inside the building.
One teacher sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment. Special forces swiftly mobilized, cordoning off the school and deploying rescue teams to evacuate trapped students and staff. The operation was tense, with frightened children huddled inside as negotiators arrived on scene.
Police enlisted the help of village and district leaders to communicate with the suspect, urging him to surrender peacefully. Authorities issued warnings to the public to avoid the area and rely only on official updates to prevent misinformation from spreading panic.
After hours of meticulous efforts, the Hat Yai police station’s officers, special operations forces, and rescue units successfully contained the situation. The gunman was taken into custody without further casualties, marking the end of a terrifying ordeal. Investigations are now underway to determine the motive behind this shocking act of violence at an educational institution.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns about school safety in Thailand, prompting calls for enhanced security measures nationwide.