Lieutenant General Adul, Defense Minister, along with the 4th Army Commander, apologized to the public following the Prime Minister's concerns over local controversies. They admitted communication errors that caused misunderstandings and emphasized their sincere intention to resolve issues to bring about peace. They also pledged to continue engaging with the local community.
At 15:03 on 17 April 2026, at the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 4 Front, Sirindhorn Camp, Khao Tum Subdistrict, Yarang District, Pattani Province, following the visit of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul who chaired a security monitoring meeting in the southern border provinces.
Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Defense Minister, together with Lieutenant General Narathip Poyonok, 4th Army Commander, and Police General Samran Nualma, Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, briefed the media. They said the Prime Minister was concerned about the public criticism on various issues and had brought ministers and department heads to acknowledge the problems, including matters related to Islamic boarding schools (por-nor schools) and the silencing of the 4th Army Commander's microphone. He affirmed the 4th Army Commander's sincere commitment and determination to solve these problems. However, the press conference atmosphere was tense with many media present, causing some pressure and microphone issues, which they discussed openly. He reaffirmed the 4th Army Commander's good intentions.
Regarding the incident where the 4th Army Commander silenced his microphone when speaking about the assassination attempt on Narathiwat MP Kamonsak Liwamo, stating, “If it were me, I wouldn’t let them get away,” which sparked criticism, Lieutenant General Adul said the microphone issue was a personal matter and should not be debated further. It has passed, the commander has apologized, and it is forgivable as they are all Thai. He urged the commander to remain motivated to work for the people. He emphasized that good thoughts, good deeds, and good words are what must be upheld, though communication was too brief and the media pressure high, noting he himself felt nervous while giving his interview.
When asked about the Islamic boarding school association's letter requesting the Prime Minister to transfer the 4th Army Commander out of the area, Lieutenant General Adul said they can discuss the matter. The commander has accepted responsibility, though it was neither a disciplinary nor criminal offense, but rather a communication shortfall that has been apologized for. He believed the Thai people could forgive.
When asked how they plan to build understanding with local people, Lieutenant General Adul said the 4th Army Commander would meet with local communities and requested cooperation from all media to foster mutual understanding.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Narathip apologized to the public, stating that he might have erred in communication that caused public concern, especially regarding Islamic boarding schools teaching religion. He assured that as director of ISOC Region 4 Front, he is committed to resolving problems to bring peace to the three southern border provinces.
When reporters asked if there would be discussions with religious schools to clarify the situation, Lieutenant General Narathip replied affirmatively, noting they already conduct activities in various schools.
Police General Samran disclosed that the Prime Minister has closely followed the case of MP Kamonsak’s shooting attempt, although it falls under the jurisdiction of the Police Region 9 Commander and the Region 9 Investigation Center Commander. Since the incident on 20 March, authorities have arrested four suspects, including the driver and the gunman, who were caught in Kanchanaburi Province, and another suspect involved in dismantling evidence vehicles.
Additionally, ISOC has filed charges under Section 157 for dereliction of duty and Section 151 for misuse of government property, which is a separate case. If investigations link the cases, the Police Region 9 Commander and relevant commanders will proceed with legal actions accordingly.
Regarding the remaining fugitive suspect, authorities said he is skilled and experienced abroad. They have coordinated with related agencies, including Immigration, Border Patrol Police, and military units along the border to prevent his escape from the country. If he escapes, an Interpol red notice will be issued to track and apprehend him for prosecution.
However, the issue of who ordered the attack is still under evidence gathering to clarify facts and additional charges may be filed, as not all suspects have been apprehended.
Police General Samran emphasized that the Prime Minister and the Royal Thai Police Chief are deeply concerned about the case and have instructed ongoing investigations. He personally has monitored the work on-site to ensure evidence collection and legal proceedings progress effectively.