14-12-2024 (BANGKOK) A devastating grenade attack at a charity fair in Thailand’s western Tak Province has left three people dead and 39 others injured in what local authorities are describing as an unprecedented act of violence in the remote mountainous region.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 PM on Wednesday at the Doi Loi Fa Charity Fair, where hundreds of revellers were enjoying traditional retro dance performances near the former Umphang Airport grounds. According to Police Colonel Suphakorn Phiphattanaphimpha, Superintendent of Umphang Police Station, an unidentified assailant hurled what investigators believe to be a hand grenade into a crowd of merrymakers gathered in front of the main stage.
“The explosion created immediate chaos,” said a local official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “The sound echoed through the mountain valley, sending people fleeing in all directions.”
Three victims, who sustained critical injuries from shrapnel to vital organs, were pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency services rushed 39 others to Umphang District Hospital, where medical staff were mobilised to handle the sudden influx of casualties. The hospital reportedly reached capacity as doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to treat victims ranging from children to elderly participants.
The attack occurred on what should have been a celebratory evening, marking the penultimate night of the week-long charity fair that began on 8 December. Eyewitnesses report that the evening had proceeded peacefully until the attack, with no signs of disturbance or altercation preceding the explosion.
Forensic teams from Tak Province have cordoned off the blast site to collect evidence. A crater left by the explosion has been located, and investigators are working to determine the specific type of explosive device used in the attack.
Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which has shocked the typically peaceful mountain community. “We are pursuing all possible leads to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act,” Colonel Phiphattanaphimpha stated.
