Thai Prime Minister Announces Compensation After Fatal School Shooting in Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi: The Prime Minister arrived at the scene, expressed sorrow over the school shooting, and announced compensation of 1 million baht for the victims. The incident involved a 14-year-old male student who opened fire inside a well-known school in Nonthaburi province, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and instructed relevant agencies to provide urgent assistance. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Mr. Paradorn Prisnanantakul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and Chairman of the Disaster Relief Fund, will hold a meeting to consider disbursing compensation from the Disaster Relief Fund. The compensation amounts are set at 1,000,000 baht for fatalities, 700,000 baht for disabilities, 200,000 baht for serious injuries, and 100,000 baht for minor injuries.

The Department of Rights and Liberties Protection, Ministry of Justice, has already begun providing assistance in line with the Act on Compensation for Victims and Compensation and Expenses for Defendants in Criminal Cases. The government is coordinating efforts from all agencies to offer comprehensive support, as instructed by the Prime Minister.

Mr. Prasert Chantarawong, Minister of Education, conveyed his deepest condolences for the loss of educational personnel. He emphasized the importance of mental well-being for teachers and students and has engaged a psychological support team to assist those affected. The Ministry of Education is closely monitoring the situation and is awaiting the results of the autopsy and forensic investigation.

In response to the security breach, Mr. Prasert instructed educational service offices nationwide to enhance security measures and monitor affected individuals, particularly those in hospitals. The Ministry has pledged initial financial assistance of 20,000 baht for the deceased and 5,000 baht for the injured, with additional support from the Ministry's welfare fund.

The bodies of the deceased have not yet been moved as officials continue to collect evidence and conduct forensic investigations. Discussions are ongoing with the government to maximize assistance and compensation for the victims' families and those affected. Meanwhile, the motive for the attack remains unclear and is under police investigation.