Statement of the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand
on the shooting incident causing deaths and injuries at Rusoh District, Narathiwat Province

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          With regard to the shooting attack by an unidentified group of gunmen on the car of         Mr. Somchai Thongchan, assistant village headman of Dhammjaroen Village, Rusoh District, Narathiwat Province and his family members around 07.30 a.m. on 2 March 2017 while he was taking his son to school at the Municipality of Rusoh Sub-District causing 4 deaths and one injury including the innocent children and women.
          The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT) strongly condemns the act of violence as it shows no respect for human value and dignity. This cruel and inhuman attack is a serious and blatant violation of human rights. In this connection the NHRCT’s concern and position are as follows:
          1.    We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the victims.
          2.    We urge the culprits and/or anyone involved to stop this acts of violence immediately.
          3.    We call on the security agencies to increase safety measures to protect the people. Meanwhile, local residents should be on alert for the safety of their lives, families and community.
          4.    We strongly hope that the relevant agencies would bring those who are responsible for this incident to justice and we wish a speedy remedial measures for the victims.
          The NHRCT reaffirms its commitment to promote and protect human rights and stands ready to extend its support to all parties in bringing back peace to the southern border provinces.

 National Human Rights Commission of Thailand
2 March 2017

03/03/2017