Multiple bomb, arson attacks rock Thailand’s south: Reuters
ECONOMYNEXT – Explosions and fires ripped through at least 17 locations in southern Thailand on Wednesday in what appeared to be multiple coordinated attacks that injured seven people, Reuters reported citing Thai authorities.
The bombings and arson attacks happened after midnight Wednesday August 17 and targeted convenience stores and a gas station across three provinces, lightly injuring at least seven, according to police and military statements, Reuters reported.
No one has claimed responsibility for the attacks so far.
Incidentally, Sri Lanka’s former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa who fled the country in July is currently in Bangkok Thailand. His cousin Udayanga Weeratunga told EconomyNext that Rajapaksa would be returning to Sri Lanka on August 24.
Related:
Sri Lanka’s runaway ex president to return on Aug 24: report
Reuters reported that provinces in southern Thailand along the border with Malaysia have seen a decades-long, low-level insurgency, in which the Thai government has battled shadowy groups seeking independence for the predominantly Muslim provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and parts of Songkhla.
More than 7,300 people have been killed in the conflict since 2004, according to the Deep South Watch group, which monitors the violence.
Peace talks that began in 2013 have faced repeated disruptions.
Wednesday’s attacks came after the Thai government earlier this year restarted discussions with the main insurgent group, the Barisan Revolusi Nasional, after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, reported Reuters. (Colombo/Aug17/2022)
