A police officer tragically died late Tuesday night in Kamphaeng Phet province, Thailand, while attempting to stop two pickup trucks carrying illegal migrants from Myanmar. The incident occurred in Mueang district when one of the trucks crashed into a parked police car at a roadblock.
Pol Cpl Natthawat, who was standing behind the police car, was fatally crushed against a utility pole upon impact. The truck’s driver, identified as Songphol, abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby sugarcane plantation. However, police apprehended him shortly after the crash.
According to authorities, Songphol had called his brother, who was driving a second truck involved in the operation, asking for help. The second truck, also carrying illegal migrants, managed to evade police despite running over tire-puncturing spikes laid on the road. Both the brother and another Thai accomplice were later arrested.
In total, police detained 19 illegal migrants traveling in the two trucks. The drivers reportedly admitted they had been paid 8,000 baht each to transport the migrants from Wang Chao district in Tak province to a broker in Uthai Thani province.
Why is this incident significant?
It highlights the risks law enforcement officers face in combating human smuggling operations. Despite efforts to crack down on such activities, smugglers continue to find ways to transport migrants illegally across provinces.
What steps are being taken to address this?
Authorities are increasing surveillance and roadblocks in areas known for human trafficking. The arrests in this case are expected to aid in further investigations to dismantle the network involved.
The tragic death of Pol Cpl Natthawat serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by officers working to uphold the law and protect communities. This case also underscores the urgent need for stricter measures to combat human trafficking and ensure the safety of law enforcement personnel.