Thai army apologizes after fatal beating of 18-year-old conscript

BANGKOK

Thailand’s army has apologized for the death of a teenage conscript who was beaten during disciplinary training, saying the incident violated military rules and national law.

The apology comes after a Thai court on Tuesday sentenced two military instructors and 11 senior conscripts to between 10 and 20 years in prison over the death of Vorapach Padmasakul, 18, in August last year.

"The case is considered a serious breach of military discipline, the law, and the policy of the army chief," army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree said. "It is unacceptable for the RTA. This should no longer happen in our time."

Vorapach had been stationed at the 21st Infantry Regiment, King’s Guard. He died on Aug. 2, 2024, less than three months after joining the military.

A medical report cited in the investigation said he suffered extensive injuries including brain swelling, broken ribs, a punctured and collapsed lung, spinal trauma, and a fractured collarbone.

Winthai said the military’s legal mechanisms were activated immediately after the incident, leading to arrests, an internal investigation, and formal disciplinary action against those involved.

Writing by Aamir Latif

BANGKOK

Thailand’s army has apologized for the death of a teenage conscript who was beaten during disciplinary training, saying the incident violated military rules and national law.

Vorapach had been stationed at the 21st Infantry Regiment, King’s Guard. He died on Aug. 2, 2024, less than three months after joining the military.

A medical report cited in the investigation said he suffered extensive injuries including brain swelling, broken ribs, a punctured and collapsed lung, spinal trauma, and a fractured collarbone.

Winthai said the military’s legal mechanisms were activated immediately after the incident, leading to arrests, an internal investigation, and formal disciplinary action against those involved.

Writing by Aamir Latif