Tak Bai tragedy court case to be decided next month

A lawsuit against nine former top officials implicated in the Tak Bai tragedy is set for consideration by the Narathiwat Provincial Court next month. The lawsuit, filed on April 26 by a group of 48 plaintiffs, seeks justice for the victims and their families who have seen no action taken by police or prosecutors beyond financial compensation.

The plaintiffs, consisting of injured victims and relatives of the deceased, have pressed ahead with their case as the 20-year statute of limitations nears its expiration in October. The tragic incident occurred on October 25, 2004, when security forces dispersed a protest in front of Tak Bai Police Station in Tak Bai district. The demonstrators were demanding the release of six detainees.

Seven of the protesters died at the scene, while 78 others succumbed to suffocation or organ failure during their transport to a military camp in Pattani’s Nong Chik district, which is 140 kilometres away.

Adilan Ali-Ishoh, a lawyer with the Muslim Attorney Centre Foundation representing the plaintiffs, confirmed that the court had already held two hearings on June 24 and July 19 for the initial inquiry process. The court will announce on August 23 whether it will proceed with the case.

The nine former officials are accused of murder, unlawful detention, and misconduct. Among those charged are a former 4th army region commander, a former chief of Provincial Police Region 9, a former Narathiwat governor, and a former superintendent of Tak Bai station. Three of these officials were directly involved in the incident.

Adilan expressed optimism that the court would accept the case for trial but voiced concerns about whether the accused could be arraigned before the statute of limitations expires on October 25.

“In case the court accepts the case, it remains to be seen if the defendants will try to delay court appearance.”

Useng Doloh, another lawyer involved in the case, criticised the police for their inaction, suggesting that the high-ranking status of those involved may have influenced the lack of progress.

“Twenty years can’t erase their memory. It only diminishes their hope for justice. As soon as the statute of limitations expires, any chance for justice disappears.”

The plaintiffs’ determination to pursue legal action underscores the persistent demand for accountability and justice for the lives lost and affected by the Tak Bai tragedy. The court’s decision next month will determine the next steps in this long-overdue quest for justice, reported Bangkok Post.