Dozens of coordinated arson attacks hit southern Thailand
More than 50 coordinated arson and incendiary attacks "aimed at creating unrest" have been carried out across Thailand's insurgency‑hit south, the Thai military said.
At least two people were injured when a local government office building, a convenience store, and a stolen vehicle were set ablaze. The incidents occurred between 20:00 local time and midnight on Saturday across the southern border provinces of Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani.
The Bangkok Post reported that two women were injured when a bomb exploded in Muang district of Narathiwat. Multiple telecommunication towers were set on fire, prompting security officials to warn residents not to touch suspicious objects. An overnight curfew was imposed in Narathiwat but was lifted on Sunday morning, with no further attacks recorded.
No group has claimed responsibility. The conflict, which has simmered since 2004, is largely driven by the Barisan Revolusi Nasional in the predominantly Muslim region fighting for greater autonomy. More than 7,000 people have died in the conflict to date. Recent violence, including the killing of five soldiers in a checkpoint attack in July, has prompted authorities to postpone a planned dialogue that was supported by Malaysia since 2013.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and cabinet members are scheduled for a two‑day visit to Hat Yai in Songkhla province next week, where investment projects, flooding prevention and security issues are set to be discussed.
AFP via Getty Images
