The Army has filed criminal charges and is preparing to dismiss soldiers after non-commissioned officers and conscript soldiers collectively assaulted a conscript soldier, resulting in his death.
On 11 Jan 2026, the Army received a report of a conscript soldier from the 2nd Development Battalion who died due to injuries inflicted by non-commissioned officers and conscript soldiers from the same unit.
Preliminary investigations found that the group of perpetrators jointly assaulted three conscript soldiers during the night of 9–10 Jan 2026, claiming dissatisfaction over the soldiers’ violation of unit regulations. This attack caused Private Kritanon Phonchanthuek to suffer severe injuries and later die at the hospital on 11 Jan 2026. The other two conscript soldiers were injured and remain under close medical care. The investigation also revealed that the non-commissioned officer involved had consumed alcohol prior to the incident.
The Army states that this case represents a grave breach of military discipline, a criminal offense, and a violation of Army policy that is unacceptable and seriously damages the Army’s reputation.
Currently, the 2nd Army Region and the 2nd Development Division have instructed the military legal officer to gather evidence and file complaints with investigators to pursue criminal prosecution fully. They have also established a committee for serious disciplinary investigation under the Military Discipline Act and are preparing to dismiss the offenders from service.
The Army extends its deepest condolences to the family of Private Kritanon Phonchanthuek for their loss. As the victim’s representative, the Army affirms it will proceed transparently through all judicial steps, refusing to protect or assist any wrongdoers in any case, to ensure full justice for the deceased.