Thai Navy Penalises 17 Over Violence Against Conscripts
Thai Navy Penalises 17 Over Violence Against Conscripts
BANGKOK, 26 June 2026 – The Royal Thai Navy has disciplined 17 personnel after an internal investigation found that conscripts were subjected to physical abuse within a naval unit, with punishments ranging from confinement to the loss of employment benefits.
Navy spokesman Rear Admiral Parach Rattanaichaphan announced the disciplinary measures on 24 June, stating that the Royal Thai Navy rejects all forms of violence, bullying and human rights violations.
The investigation was launched after allegations of abuse against conscripts surfaced, prompting an urgent internal inquiry that attracted widespread public attention over the treatment of military recruits.
According to the Navy, 17 personnel were found to have been involved, including 15 senior conscripts and two commissioned officers. Of the conscripts, 12 were found to have directly participated in physical assaults and were sentenced to 30 days’ confinement, while three others who witnessed the incident received seven days’ confinement.
The two officers on duty were found to have failed to stop the abuse or report the incident. Both were sentenced to 10 days’ confinement and had half of their semi-annual bonuses withheld as disciplinary action.
The Navy also said allegations circulating on social media involving another officer were unsubstantiated and based on unverified information, urging the public to verify facts before sharing reports.
The Royal Thai Navy reiterated that the incident reflected individual misconduct rather than institutional practice and said it remains committed to upholding military discipline, human rights and the welfare of conscripts.
According to Thaitabloid, the Navy has instructed all units to strengthen supervision, improve preventive measures and reinforce human rights standards within military training environments. It also expressed regret over the incident and pledged to enhance accountability while ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all personnel.
