Training death prompts Senate inquiry

Conscript collapsed after long run at maritime center in Sattahip

The Senate Committee on Armed Forces and State Security will attend Chon Buri to check the demise of a marine soldier during training at a foundation in Sattahip.

People want to learn more about the situation surrounding the death of Pvt Siriwat Jaidee during marine authorities training in July, said Sen Vithavee Prathumsawat, the committee director.

It was reported earlier that Siriwat collapsed during a long run on July 2. He was apparently kicked by his coach, who thought he had faked a faint event.

Siriwat was left unattended with no health aid. He was taken to hospital days after but died on the way to clinic, according to the accounts.

Committee president Sawat Thatsana said a dying during training is very strange and requires urgent attention to reestablish public assurance.

The commission has even asked its director, Sen Chaiyong Maneerungsakul, to explore the conscript’s home in the southern state of Songkhla to provide support and listen to their account of what happened to Pvt Siriwat.

The senator’s studies may be reported to the council and forwarded to authorities to ensure fairness.

Maj Korapot Runghirunwat, the committee’s next vice-chairman, and Lt Cdr Wuttipong Pongsuwan, an assistant to the council, will attend the training center in Sattahip to collect data and ensure justice for all parties involved.

Ms Vithavee said a committee is also studying changes to the martial officers system, aiming to align it with security problems and modernise the armed forces.

She said committee members agreed on the need for clarity, appropriate compensation, and reforms to address future challenges effectively.

Lt Cdr Wuttipong said the death of Pvt Siriwat has affected the morale of active soldiers and the public.

“Many people say it was an accidental death, with some saying the conscript was n’t in good physical condition, ” he said. “An autopsy is needed to find the cause of death.

“If he was n’t in an adequate physical condition good enough for training, that ’s what the navy must improve. ”