Thai schools conduct active shooter drills following deadly attack

Thai schools have commenced active shooter response drills following a deadly attack two weeks ago that left at least eight people dead. The drills are part of a nationwide effort to strengthen security measures after a 14-year-old opened fire at a school.

At Surasamontree School in Bangkok, students participated in “run, hide, fight” exercises. During the simulation, a police officer acting as a mock attacker used a handgun and an assault rifle firing blanks. Students practiced escaping the area, hiding under tables, and using furniture to block classroom entrances. In some scenarios, students were taught to tackle and restrain the attacker as a last resort.

The training follows an August 10 directive from Education Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, which requires schools to develop formal security plans and rehearse emergency procedures. In addition to drills, schools have increased daily security protocols, including the use of metal detectors and bag searches.