Tak —
At 11:30 PM on December 13th, a grenade attack shattered the festivities at the “Amazing Highland Land Fair” in Umphang District, Tak Province, leaving three people dead and 48 injured.
The explosion reportedly occurred near a retro dance stage, where over 8,000 attendees were joyfully dancing to live music. Panic ensued as attendees fled the scene while emergency responders worked to treat the injured and transport them to Umphang Hospital, which quickly became overwhelmed, according to the Umphang police.
Initial investigations revealed the attackers as a Thai national and a member of the Karen National Union (KNU), who confessed to targeting a rival youth group due to a long-standing feud from the Loy Krathong Festival last month.
Authorities are further questioning the suspects, who reportedly used a powerful grenade in the attack. The names of the suspects were withheld by the police.
National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet reportedly ordered a review of security measures for public events, highlighting deficiencies in event planning and safety protocols.
Additionally, Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed condolences to the victims’ families and called for an urgent response to the incident. Security has been tightened nationwide at public gatherings to ensure public safety.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
