Lam Phaya attack suspect killed in clash with security forces in Yala
Security officials report one suspect killed and two firearms recovered in Yala, linking the man to three cases including the 2019 attack that killed 15.
- A suspect wanted for the 2019 Lam Phaya attack that killed 15 people was killed in a clash with security forces in Yala, southern Thailand.
- The deceased, identified as Saudee, 48, was killed during a three-day security operation in Than To district after his group reportedly opened fire on a patrol.
- The suspect was described as a militant group member and was wanted on three separate arrest warrants for violent attacks, including the Lam Phaya incident and others in 2013 and 2017.
- Security personnel were unharmed, recovered two firearms from the scene, and are continuing to search for other militants who escaped.
A suspect wanted in connection with the 2019 Lam Phaya attack that killed 15 people has been killed in a clash with security forces in Yala, southern Thailand, according to the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC).
ISOC’s Region 4 Forward Command reported on 9 November 2026 that the man died during an operation conducted from 7–9 November in the forested hills of Than To district. All security personnel were unharmed, while an unspecified number of other suspected militants escaped.
Two firearms recovered after clash
The operation involved Yala’s joint special operations unit and local security agencies searching for suspected militant shelters and hideouts around Ban Kampong Baru, a smaller settlement within Ban Khok Chang, Moo 7, in Mae Wat subdistrict.
According to the command’s account, armed group members opened fire on personnel conducting a patrol, prompting an exchange of gunfire.
Officers subsequently examined the scene and recovered two firearms: an M16 rifle and a handgun.
Authorities identified the dead man as Saudee, 48, whose surname was withheld. He was from Moo 3 in Bannang Sata subdistrict, Bannang Sata district, Yala.
The command described him as an operational member of a militant group who had previously served as an instructor in military tactics. It reported that he was wanted on three arrest warrants in security-related cases.
Warrants linked to three earlier attacks
The earliest warrant, No. 198/58, was issued under the Criminal Procedure Code on 20 June 2015 in connection with the killing and beheading of Nikhom Chapo, a man from Chiang Mai.
The attack took place on 7 April 2013 at Ban Bua Thong, Moo 2, in Ban Rae subdistrict, Than To district. The attackers’ number and group affiliation were unknown, according to the statement.
A second warrant under the Criminal Procedure Code, No. 411/61, was issued on 12 September 2018 over an attack on a joint three-agency checkpoint near Krong Pinang market in Krong Pinang district.
That attack, on 3 April 2017, involved a large armed group using military weapons and improvised explosive devices. Twelve police officers were injured.
The third warrant, No. 284/62, was issued by Yala Provincial Court on 11 November 2019 in connection with the attack on the Thang Lum village security team post in Moo 5, Lam Phaya subdistrict, Mueang Yala district.
The assault on 5 November 2019 killed 15 people and injured five.
Search continues for those who fled
Security personnel were continuing to examine the area, collect evidence and track down those who escaped so they could be brought into the legal process, the command reported.
It stated that the operation was being conducted within the authorities’ legal powers, with adherence to the rule of law, human rights and fair treatment for all parties.
The command maintained that the purpose was to protect people’s lives and property, rather than create conflict or escalate violence.
Command reiterates support for peaceful solutions
ISOC’s Region 4 Forward Command reaffirmed that its approach to the southern border provinces prioritised peaceful methods alongside law enforcement.
It emphasised building understanding and providing opportunities for people whose views differ from those of the state to enter dialogue, explore solutions and work together to resolve problems peacefully.
