SONGKHLA, Dec 27 (TNA) – Two bombs exploded
simultaneously at Samila beach in Songkhla last night, causing damage to the
golden mermaid statue, the landmark of Samila beach.
The tail of the statue was ripped off by the explosion
around 10 p.m. on Wednesday. The other bomb went off at the cat and mouse
statue, 200 metres away. No one was hurt in both incidents.
The police and naval officers have cordoned off the area to
gather evidence this morning and scoured the beach to clear suspicious objects.
After last night’s explosions, an Explosive Ordnance
Disposal (EOD) team defused or destroyed more explosive items at three spots on
the beach. Initially, officials found that they were remote-controlled bombs.
Songkhla governor, Weeranan Pengchan said it cannot be
concluded which group planted the bombs. However, it is believed they wanted
erode confidence among locals and tourists ahead of the New Year holiday. He
said the authorities will step up security to restore people’s confidence
during the festive season. (TNA)
