By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock
BANGKOK, April 25 (Bernama) -- Five police officers lost their lives and one sustained serious injuries after their aircraft crashed on Friday in Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan province.
A spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, Pol Lt Gen Achayon Kraithong, confirmed six officers were onboard when the police aircraft crashed at around 8 am local time during a test flight in preparation for parachute training.
The five officers who lost their lives in the incident included two pilots, two mechanics, and an engineer.
The injured officer, who sustained serious injuries, was transported to Hua Hin Hospital and was reported to be fighting for his life.
Achayon said investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the crash.
"Efforts include examining the wreckage, analysing the aircraft's black box, and gathering technical evidence with the assistance of relevant aviation authorities for a comprehensive investigation," he said in a statement on Friday.
National Police Chief Pol Gen Kittirat Panpet has directed that full support be given to the families of the deceased and has ordered dignified funerals to honour the officers' sacrifice.
"Pol Gen Kittirat has also emphasised the need for a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future.
"The Royal Thai Police express their deepest condolences for the loss of these brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," he said.
-- BERNAMA
