Death toll rises to 20 in Korat shooting spree by soldier
The death toll in a shooting rampage by a soldier on Saturday (February 8) has risen to 20, with 31 people injured, Nation TV reported, quoting Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital.
Troops from a special warfare unit have been dispatched to Nakhon Ratchasima province to take control of the situation, according to Defence Ministry spokesman Lt-General Kongcheep Tantravanich.
Sergeant-Major Jakapan Thomma has been identified as the soldier who allegedly went on the shooting rampage. He is reportedly holed up in Terminal 21 shopping mall in Korat, which has been cordoned off by security forces.
Carnage in Korat as soldier guns down 20 in shooting spree
At 3pm on Saturday, police in Korat were informed about the shooting in a house in Muang district. Colonel Anantaroj Krasae, 48, from the Surathampitak barracks was found shot dead along with Anong Mitchan, 65. Colonel Anantroj was the commander of Jakapan. Both the victims were allegedly shot dead by Jakapan.
The suspect also reportedly shot some soldiers at the barracks and later fled in the humvee. Along the way he fired more bullets.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has already been informed of the situation, according to the Government Spokeswoman Narumon Pinyosinwat.
He has instructed related parties including Army chief General Apirat Kongsompong to closely monitor the situation and find out the motivation for the shooting as well as take care of the injured.