NARATHIWAT, March 10 (TNA) – A series of coordinated attacks erupted across Thailand’s southern province of Narathiwat on the night of March 8, with particularly severe violence in the Sungai Kolok district.
In one of the most brazen attacks, around ten insurgents stormed the Sungai Kolok district office, opening fire and launching pipe bombs before planting a car bomb containing approximately 100 kilograms of explosives.
The attack killed two defense volunteers and injured at least nine others, including both officials and civilians.
Extensive damage from the car bomb was reported to multiple buildings, including the district office’s assembly hall, tax office, second-floor meeting room, fire engine garage, and a National Housing Authority apartment building behind the district office.
Another bombing occurred in Sungai Kolok, approximately 2-3 kilometers from the district office. The bomb, packed in 20kg cooking gas cylinders and detonated by radio, fortunately caused no injuries.
Additional bombings targeted electricity poles in Tak Bai and Su-ngai Padi districts, bringing the attacks to three districts in total. Officials believe the incidents were coordinated to create widespread unrest.
Authorities have identified the suspected mastermind behind the car bombing as Abdulloh Bula, a high-level commander skilled in shooting and bomb-making. The group is believed to have received combat training abroad and to have “100% anti-state capability.” Following the attacks, some suspects reportedly fled across the border while others escaped to hide in the Tawe mountain range in Su-ngai Padi district.
Intelligence suggests a significant smuggling operation of weapons, ammunition, and explosives across the Thailand-Malaysia border, with materials being stockpiled in border areas. Officials warn that these attacks may be just the beginning, with more violence possibly planned for Yala and Pattani provinces.
Nine people injured in the Narathiwat bombings continue to receive treatment at Sungai Kolok Hospital, including one seriously wounded defense volunteer. – 819 (TNA)
