A series of explosions and arson attacks across southern Thailand has sparked concern in communities near the Malaysia-Thailand border, with residents reporting hearing loud blasts from across the border.
The incidents occurred across Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat on Saturday night, with reports indicating that at least 12 locations were affected. The attacks reportedly involved explosions, burning tyres, vehicle fires and damage to public infrastructure and commercial premises.
The disturbances began at around 8.15pm, according to local media reports. The incidents were particularly noticeable in areas close to the border, where some Malaysian residents said the sound of explosions could be heard from their homes.
Residents Mistook Explosions For Thunder
Residents in Rantau Panjang and nearby areas in Kelantan described hearing unusually loud blasts during the night. Some initially believed the sounds were thunder because of the timing and the distance from the affected areas.
One resident from Kampung Tanjung reportedly said he was at home when he heard a powerful explosion and felt his house shake. He later learnt that the sound was believed to have come from an explosion in Sungai Kolok, a district in Narathiwat close to the Malaysian border.
Residents living near the border said hearing explosions from southern Thailand was not entirely unusual, but the latest series of incidents still caused concern among families.
Another resident from Kampung Bong Chicha said she initially assumed the three loud sounds she heard were thunder. She only realised what had happened after seeing reports about the explosions on social media.
The blasts were reportedly audible as far as Pasir Mas, highlighting the proximity of the affected areas to Malaysian communities.
At Least Two People Injured In Vehicle Explosion
The incidents involved several types of attacks, including the burning of tyres, vehicles and public facilities. Commercial premises, communication infrastructure and other property were also reportedly targeted.
In Narathiwat, at least 11 incidents were reported. One of the more serious incidents involved a vehicle explosion that left two people injured.
Police were reportedly alerted after a vehicle carrying five people passed an area near a mosque in Sungai Kolok before an explosion occurred. Shrapnel struck the vehicle, injuring two women inside.
Security forces subsequently sealed off the area and began investigations while increasing security around affected locations.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid areas where attacks have taken place.
Curfew Introduced Amid Security Concerns
Thailand’s Fourth Army Region also issued a warning on social media, advising residents to stay away from attack sites and designated security areas. Members of the public were further warned not to approach or move suspicious objects.
A curfew was subsequently imposed in parts of Narathiwat as authorities sought to strengthen security and prevent further incidents.
The curfew reportedly began at 10.15pm and remained in effect until 6am the following morning.
The latest unrest has once again drawn attention to security conditions in Thailand’s southern border provinces, particularly areas near Malaysia. The incidents have also caused concern among Malaysian communities located close to the border, where residents were able to hear the explosions from across the frontier.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incidents and assess the extent of the damage caused by the series of explosions and fires. Further security measures may be introduced depending on developments on the ground.