Police Identify Militants Behind Southern Unrest, Ready Arrest Warrants
Police have identified a militant group responsible for three coordinated attacks in Narathiwat province that killed at least six people, and arrest warrants are being prepared as authorities accelerate the manhunt across Thailand's souther
Deputy National Police Commissioner General Samran Nueammai said on July 23 that authorities have identified the militant group responsible for a wave of violence in Thailand's southern border region. The latest incidents include the shooting death of a road construction supervisor in Sri Sakhon district, a car bombing at an old hostel in Muang district, and the ambush killing of five ranger soldiers at Rangae checkpoint—all in Narathiwat province. Samran said he believes all three incidents are connected, with the militants seeking to create instability in the region. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered accelerated arrests, and police have already identified the suspects and are preparing warrants. Some warrants have already been issued.
Police will lead the manhunt while coordinating with the military. General Chaiyaprueksa Duangprafat, secretary of the Internal Security Operations Command, visited Narathiwat and vowed to pursue the perpetrators relentlessly, though police will continue cooperation with the armed forces. Samran acknowledged that the perpetrators have been changing tactics and have managed to strike even at military checkpoints. He said preventive measures focus on adjusting tactics and vigilance, though the exact structure of military checkpoints was unclear. Regarding the hostel bombing at Tan Yong, he confirmed that officials were not asleep because the location is a sharp bend and intersection where drivers must decide whether to turn or go straight, allowing the attackers to jump from the vehicle and let it crash into the building.
When asked if the recurring attacks in three days indicate failures by Region 9 Commissioner or warrant his removal, Samran said plans must be adjusted despite adequate resources and personnel. He defended Region 9's commander, saying he has worked effectively, though improvements are needed. Samran denied any signal of the official's removal. When asked how he would improve the national police force's image as the 16th commissioner with up to seven years of service, Samran did not answer before entering an elevator.
