Bangkok: Paying tribute to the heroism of Sergeant Major Theerayut, who sacrificed his life in southern Thailand. The Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army praised the heroism of Sergeant Major Theerayut, who sacrificed his life in the southern border region, and presented over 4.14 million baht in compensation to his family. He vowed to pursue the perpetrators and their supporters to the justice system and take decisive legal action.
According to Thai News Agency, in Surat Thani Province, General Chaiyapruk Duangprapat, Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army and Secretary-General of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), presided over the royal cremation ceremony for Sergeant Major Theerayut Somakerd, a soldier of the 45th Ranger Regiment. The soldier lost his life following a gun attack and pipe bomb throwing by insurgents at the Bukeh Sami checkpoint in Tan Yong Mas Subdistrict, Ra-ngae District, Narathiwat Province on July 22, 2026. The ceremony was held on July 30, 2026 at Wat Phanom, Phanom District, Surat Thani Province.
General Chaiyapruk expressed his condolences and offered support to the family, relatives, and close friends of the deceased, praising the bravery and sacrifice of Sergeant Major Theerayut, who courageously performed his duty to protect the people and safeguard the country's sovereignty.
On the same occasion, the Chief of Staff of the Army, representing the Royal Thai Army, presented a consolation payment, compensation from the "Defense Forces Protection Project," and assistance from various funds and benefits, totaling 4,144,761 baht, to the heirs of the deceased. He also affirmed that the Royal Thai Army will fully and respectfully care for the rights, welfare, and well-being of the family, honoring the sacrifice made by the deceased.
Security officials confirmed that they will expedite the pursuit of the perpetrators, as well as those who support related movements, to bring them to justice and take decisive legal action. This is to restore confidence and security for the people in the area.