Minivan driver taking young students to school shot at wheel

A 38-year-old man became the latest victim of the southern violence when he was shot in Pattani's Ruesoh district on Thursday morning as he was driving a minivan crowded with young students.

The victim, who died on the spot, was identified as Punnawat Tohfai, a resident of the district. Witnesses said he was driving the vehicle carrying seven young students in the back towards their kindergarten at about 7.30am when two men on a motorcycle approached and opened fire.

Witnesses identified the weapon as an 11mm pistol.

An examination of Punnawat's body revealed gunshot wounds to his cheek and torso. Police also found three spent bullets at the scene.