<p>The war against the communists ended long ago over but the facts about the violence of the time are still not clear. We do not know the exact number of lives lost, particularly of villagers living in remote areas. Even the losses that happened in the middle of the city such as the events of Oct 14, Oct 6, May 1992, and May 2010, still remain obscure and the facts have not been proven.</p><p>There has been no punishment for those responsible for these events, so it is hard for Thai society to learn lessons in order to prevent violence in the future.</p>

<p>When the bones now confirmed to be that of disappeared Karen activist were discovered in Kaeng Krachan Dam, an oil drum were also found. Prachatai looks back at the history of the &quot;Red Drum,&quot; state violence, and the culture of impunity in Thailand.&nbsp;</p>

<div>Enforced disappearance has happened again and again in Thailand. The number of victims may be over 3,000. Still, no one has ever been held to account for these crimes. This story explores how the practice has become systematic and part of the 'culture' of the land of smiles.</div> <div> </div>