Thailand Indicts Former Security Personnel Over 2004 Tak Bai Massacre
Eight former state security personnel in Thailand have been indicted on murder charges related to the deaths of 78 Muslim protesters during the Tak Bai massacre in 2004, the Associated Press reported yesterday.
The announcement was made by the prosecutor’s office on Wednesday, just weeks before the statute of limitations expires.
On October 25, 2004, thousands protested in Narathiwat’s Tak Bai district, demanding the release of six detained Muslim men. Around 1,300 protesters were loaded into overcrowded trucks, leading to deaths by crushing or suffocation. The accused include truck drivers and Chalermchai Wirunphet, the commander of the 5th Infantry Division at the time.
The case has drawn attention due to long-delayed legal proceedings, with families of the victims previously filing lawsuits against additional military officials. The indictment raises hopes for justice as the October 25 deadline approaches.
