Chonburi—
On March 14th, 2024, RAdm. Wirudom Muangjeen, the Royal Thai navy spokesman, publicly revealed a case of HTMS Khirirat set aflame at 11:45 AM at Laem Thian Pier, Sattahip Naval Base, Chonburi.
On the incident day, weapon repair and maintenance officers inspected the muzzle on HTMS Chonburi, however, as a technical error occurred, the muzzle “jumped” causing HTMS Khirirat to burst aflame at the rear.
Upon a naval investigation, it was found out that a bullet was shot from HTMS Chonburi as it was a technical error, stated the navy spokesman, that a live bullet was still inside the muzzle during the marine military exercise on March 13th.
As a result, 14 naval officers suffered injury from inhaling smoke. They were later transferred to Somdech Phra Nangchao Sirikit Hospital for immediate medical treatment, according to the navy spokesman.
After the incident, Navy Chief Adm Adung Phan-iam assigned an investigative committee from relevant agencies to investigate the case thoroughly and report the investigative results transparently within three days. The Navy Chief had concerns about the incident, especially the naval officers who were receiving medical care at the hospital.
The Navy Chief also performed an inspection at the hospital personally to follow up on the health condition of his subordinates and issued an order to revelvant doctors to give attentive care to them.
