Thailand: Assassination attempt against Hmong chief April 24

Event

The leader of the Hmong ethnic group, Thaweesak Yodmaneebanphot, was ambushed while driving through the village of Ban Rom Fah Thong (Wiang Kaen district) around 17:00 (local time) on Tuesday, April 24. Yodmaneebanphot's wife and a daughter were killed in the attack, while he and a second child were critically injured. The motive of the attack is still unknown and no arrests have been made.

Protests to denounce the attack are possible in the coming hours and days.

Context

Yodmaneebanphot is an activist for the Hmong people and an influential figure in Wiang Kaen and Thoeng districts, located on the border with Laos (Chiang Rai province).

Advice

Individuals present in Thailand are advised to avoid making political statements in public and to avoid all protests and demonstrations.