NARATHIWAT: A ranger sergeant was killed in an ambush, followed by the burning of his vehicle and theft of his firearms. The assailants, using M16 and AK47 rifles, shot Sergeant Major Anan Maneechot in front of a cow pen behind his wife's house before setting his pickup truck on fire. His wife, who has faced familial violence before, shared the hardships of her life as a soldier's wife.
According to Thai News Agency, the attack occurred at approximately 5:40 p.m. on December 31, 2014, in Ban Khok Ta, Paluru Subdistrict, Su-ngai Padi District. Sergeant Major Anan, an intelligence officer for the 48th Ranger Regiment, was killed when hidden assailants opened fire as he tended to tasks on his property. The investigative team, led by Pol. Col. Niyom Suwannakong and Pol. Col. Asree Tuanpeng, discovered bullet casings at the scene and signs of an ambush in nearby vegetation.
Investigations revealed that Sergeant Major Anan was ambushed while cutting grass for cattle. As he attempted to defend himself using a 9 mm pistol, he was outnumbered and ultimately killed. The assailants shot him again to ensure his death, took his firearms, and set his vehicle ablaze before fleeing the scene.
Earlier that day, Col. Panjapol Traipaworn, Commander of Task Force 48, visited the family to participate in a water pouring ceremony and offered condolences. The family of Sergeant Major Anan has a history of violence. His wife, Ms. Chayata, previously lost her father to violence and had been injured by a bomb in 2006.
Ms. Chayata, through tears, expressed the acceptance of her husband's risks in service to the nation, emphasizing their shared commitment to duty and the hope for peace in their region. Her statements reflect the ongoing struggle for safety and resolution in the volatile area.