A Thai police aircraft crashed into the Gulf of Thailand during a routine parachute training mission on Friday, resulting in the tragic deaths of all six officers on board, according to an official statement by the Royal Thai Police.

The aircraft went down near the coastal town of Cha-Am at approximately 8:25 a.m. local time. The plane was reportedly part of a scheduled training operation involving airborne units. Emergency response teams launched an immediate rescue operation, recovering four bodies from the crash site. Two other officers were found alive but succumbed to their injuries despite resuscitation efforts by medical personnel.

Among the deceased was the aircraft’s pilot, whose identity has not yet been publicly released. The identities of the other victims are being withheld pending notification of their families.

The Royal Thai Police issued a statement expressing "deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences" to the families of the fallen officers, emphasizing the bravery and dedication of the crew involved in the training operation.

Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest the possibility of mechanical failure, but officials stress that no conclusions will be drawn until the investigation is complete.

This incident adds to a growing list of aviation tragedies around the world in recent weeks, including recent fatal crashes in New York and Virginia that have left international aviation safety experts concerned. The cluster of such disasters has renewed scrutiny over pilot training protocols, aircraft maintenance standards, and emergency preparedness.

The loss of six dedicated officers has shocked the Thai public and served as a painful reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement and emergency personnel in the line of duty. Memorial services are expected to be held in the coming days, with national figures and police leadership expected to attend.

As Thailand mourns, the nation’s aviation authorities, along with international partners, are working diligently to understand what led to the crash and how similar tragedies might be prevented in the future. (ILKHA)