An incident occurred where personnel stepped on an old landmine at Phu Pha Base. Fortunately, the mine did not detonate fully, resulting in minor injuries to two soldiers with no loss of limbs. Doctors reported symptoms of chest tightness caused by the blast's force.
On 17 July 2026, the Second Army Region reported that at 10:30 a.m., Suranaree forces (Suranaree Task Force) received reports that personnel from the 122nd Infantry Company, 12th Infantry Battalion, stepped on an old landmine that partially detonated, causing minor injuries during a mission to clear the firing range area within Phu Pha operational base. Two soldiers were injured and quickly transported to Kantharalak Hospital, where all were reported in stable condition.
The report states the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. while the 40mm L60 anti-aircraft gun squad attached to the 122nd Infantry Company was clearing the firing range within Phu Pha operational base as part of area preparation.
During the operation, Staff Sergeant Jakrit Buakaew, leader of the 40mm L60 anti-aircraft gun squad assigned to the 122nd Infantry Company, stepped on an old unexploded landmine remaining in the area. The blast did not fully detonate but caused injuries to his right foot and ankle, resulting in swelling and bruising from the blast pressure and mild chest tightness.
Additionally, Staff Sergeant Sathit Phongkaew, a gunner of the same 40mm L60 anti-aircraft gun who was assisting with the clearing, was affected by flying debris and dirt from the blast. Initially, no deep wounds were found, but he was taken for detailed medical evaluation.
After the incident, the unit promptly evacuated both injured soldiers from the area and transported them to Kantharalak Hospital for treatment and close monitoring.
The Suranaree forces reported that the evacuation proceeded smoothly, and both injured soldiers arrived safely at the hospital. The unit continues to monitor their condition closely while conducting thorough area inspections to prevent danger from any remaining unexploded ordnance.
Preliminary assessment indicates the mine was an old unexploded device. Both injured soldiers are in stable condition, fully conscious, with no tears or limb loss. They only experienced chest tightness due to the blast's force.