MPs from all parties in Southern Thailand pressure PM to expedite search for mastermind in Kamolsak shooting

Today (9 April 2026) at 2:00 PM at the Parliament, MPs from all political parties in Southern Thailand, including Mr. Sukarno Matha, MP for Yala (Prachachart Party); Mr. Kamolsak Leewamae, MP for Narathiwat (Prachachart Party); Ms. Angkhana Neelapaijit, Senator; and Mr. Ramadon Panjor, List MP (People’s Party), held a press conference regarding the assassination attempt on MP Kamolsak Leewamae and demanded an update from the Prime Minister.

Mr. Sukarno stated that the assassination attempt on MP Kamolsak is considered a heinous and shocking crime. Following the incident, police investigations revealed several individuals involved, which deeply affected us. We have evidence that the vehicle used belonged to the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), the firearms used were issued from the government arsenal, and most of the perpetrators were government officials. Therefore, today, as the Secretary-General of the Prachachart Party, I find it necessary to hold this press conference to express our stance. We are deeply concerned about the safety of those who have been targeted and their ability to continue serving as representatives of the people. In the three southern border provinces, we know that what the people need most is justice. Almost a month has passed, and we have still been unable to identify the masterminds who hired the perpetrators.

Mr. Sukarno stated that he is making this statement on behalf of the Prachachart Party. MP Kamolsak, representing Narathiwat province, has been targeted by ill-intentioned individuals aiming to take his life and demoralize him, his family, and his supporters. Today, we are striving in every way to uncover the truth. In particular, I met with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul today, who has been following the case closely. The Prime Minister promised that this matter will not be neglected and will investigate, follow up, and instruct relevant agencies in the area to find the masterminds. Those who are on the run must be brought to justice.

Mr. Sukarno stated that regarding the progress in the case of the attempted assassination of MP Kamolsak, we in the House of Representatives from the three southern border provinces—Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat—are clearly expressing our stance that we want progress. We want the Prime Minister, as the head of the government and as the Director of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), which oversees the evidence, to follow up and proceed according to due process.

Mr. Ramadon added that the incident is shocking and creates a sense of unease among the people in the south. But this is not just about MP Kamolsak or the Prachachart Party. As everyone can see, we have MPs from all political parties—Muslim and non-Muslim, men and women—here to affirm that violence against those who represent the people is unacceptable. We urge the Prime Minister, as Director of ISOC, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Army to clarify and expedite the investigation. This is not just an act against an individual but a threat to a political institution that is a crucial pillar of Thailand's democratic system. He appealed to the Prime Minister, stating that while there has been progress in arrests, the public wants to know: Who are the masterminds? What do they want? And is anyone trying to cover up their involvement? He emphasized the need for seriousness in reviewing security measures for political figures and the role of security agencies.

Meanwhile, Ms. Angkhana stated that, as a senator, she felt such an incident should not have happened. She noted that the incident occurred during a period of restricted public movement, yet the perpetrators' vehicles were able to move freely. While the government speaks of peacebuilding, she believes it is impossible without trust between the state and the people. She lamented the absence of the phrase "the government is committed to ending the culture of impunity" in the government's policy statement. She urged the Prime Minister and the Speaker of Parliament to take serious responsibility for the safety of all members. With the Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting approaching, she believes this issue will be raised globally. If representatives of the people can be threatened to this extent, what about ordinary citizens? Peace is far off if security agencies are allowed to use their power arbitrarily.

Reporters asked whether the investigation into the lending of the car or the transfer of the person who lent it was sufficient. Mr. Kamolsak stated that two suspects, Lieutenant Commander Viroj (a former Marine) and Mr. Thanapat (a former ranger), have not yet been arrested. As for Captain Montri, he has been transferred to Bangkok and is under disciplinary investigation. Regarding the criminal case, he emphasized the need for a deeper investigation. He also mentioned at least five or six previous attempts on his life, stating the matter involved politics and a lack of security confidence.

When asked if he was concerned that the case might be dropped, Mr. Kamolsak said progress depends on evidence. "Right now, we believe someone ordered Lieutenant Commander Viroj to do it. That's what I'm worried about—that the investigation won't reach the top. But I trust the skills of the Thai police investigators." Regarding the 10 million baht bounty rumor, Mr. Kamolsak said he had no forensic evidence of it and considered it a local rumor.

When asked about the Prime Minister's attitude, Mr. Kamolsak said the Prime Minister assured him that the central investigative team would continue its work. Regarding the future of the coalition government, he stated it was a matter for future discussion.

Meanwhile, Mr. Amin Mayusoh (Kla Tham Party) responded to questions about political rivalry, stating that he and "Bae Wa" (Mr. Kamolsak) have always respected each other and that political interference was out of the question. He added that if justice is not served for MPs, the general public cannot expect to receive it either. Regarding a photo on social media showing Mr. Sampan Mayusoh with Captain Montri, Mr. Sampan clarified that the photo was taken at a wedding 2-3 years ago and he does not personally know the Captain.

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong