BANGKOK — Authorities in southern Thailand have issued an official apology after a doctored image showing flood-relief personnel armed and in combat gear was shared on social media. The photo, generated using artificial intelligence, misrepresented the actual humanitarian efforts underway during severe flooding in the region.
The image was posted by a unit of the Border Patrol Police, claiming the personnel were “ready to enter zone 8 today.” However, the depiction was far from reality — the rescuers were in fact unarmed, wearing life jackets, and focused on delivering aid to affected communities in Hat Yai, Songkhla province.
Exposure of the Manipulation
Fact-checkers quickly identified the AI-generated watermark embedded in the image, confirming it was not authentic. Following the revelation, the police unit retracted the altered photo and replaced it with a genuine image of rescue teams in action, emphasizing boats, life vests, and relief supplies rather than weapons.
Authorities explained that the altered image was intended to illustrate readiness and commitment but acknowledged it caused confusion and public concern. The police apologized for the misrepresentation, stressing that it did not reflect the reality on the ground.
Impact Amid a Crisis
The incident came at a critical time, as southern Thailand faces widespread flooding that has displaced thousands and caused significant damage. The circulation of the manipulated image undermined public trust in official communications during the emergency and highlighted the risks posed by AI-generated misinformation in crisis situations.
Observers and disaster response experts are now calling for stricter oversight of official messaging during emergencies to prevent similar incidents, ensuring accurate information reaches the public and does not hinder relief operations.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.