By Tuwaedaniya Meringing
NARATHIWAT, Thailand: Thailand is assessing the situation and working to maintain security in its three southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala following a series of simultaneous violent incidents involving bombings and acts of sabotage that began late Saturday night (Aug. 22).
The Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 (ISOC 4), in a statement, said Thai authorities would continue monitoring the situation by directing all units to expedite investigations and strengthen security measures to protect the public and restore normalcy as soon as possible.
Earlier, Narathiwat was placed under a curfew from 10:15 pm on August 22 until 5:00 am on August 23.
More than 50 incidents, including bombings, the burning of local government offices and tyre burnings, were reported across the three provinces.
ISOC 4 has urged the public to report to local authorities if they encountered any suspicious individuals, objects or vehicles.
Explaining the curfew action, Narathiwat Task Force Commander, Major General Yodawud Phuengphak, said it was imposed to enable authorities to control the situation and ensure public safety.
“The announcement was made to enable the authorities to control the situation and ensure comprehensive public safety,” he said in a statement.
Yodawud said the curfew gave military personnel full authority to implement security measures, including searches, area control and enforcement under the 1914 Martial Law Act.
He said the measures were necessary in view of the prevailing situation, while civil authorities had been instructed to support military operations to maintain peace and order.
“However, if there is an urgent need, prior permission must be obtained from the military, police, village head or local administrative officer,” he added. – BERNAMA
