Songkhla school moves online over firearm-related posts

Hatyaiwittayalai School in Songkhla will move classes online on Monday and Tuesday (August 10–11) after it said a former contract English teacher had circulated images involving a firearm, messages and audio clips in a public LINE group, prompting concern for the safety of staff and students.

The school announced the temporary change on Saturday (August 8). Its safety notice came one day after the deadly shooting spree at Debsirin Nonthaburi School on Friday (August 7). The Hatyaiwittayalai notice did not state that the two incidents were connected.

Contract terminated after internal inquiry

The school said the foreign national had previously worked as a contract English teacher. It appointed a fact-finding committee to examine whether the teacher had breached or failed to comply with the terms and conditions of the school’s employment contract.

The school later decided to terminate the contract with effect from July 24.

Following the termination, the former teacher circulated images showing the use of a firearm, along with messages and audio clips, through online channels including a public LINE group, according to the school.

The school said its examination found that the material or conduct could be regarded as provocative, inciting, intimidating or threatening towards staff and students. It also caused concern and alarm among administrators, personnel, students and parents.

Police record made as school reviews security

The school said it had examined the material and gathered relevant evidence while considering action under applicable laws and regulations.

It has formally recorded the matter with Hat Yai Police Station and is assessing whether to strengthen security measures within the school grounds. Preparations are also being made to prevent and respond to any incidents or risks that may arise.

Staff, students and parents were asked to exercise judgement when receiving information and to follow updates from official sources to prevent misunderstandings or the spread of inaccurate information.