Timer Bomb Recovered from Satun Streetlight, Manhunt Underway
A timer-activated bomb hidden in a streetlight pole in Satun's Kuankalong district was recovered by EOD teams after it partially detonated, toppling a pole and damaging a truck but causing no serious injuries. The device's circuit board matches those used in previous attacks at Global House and the Pattani Red Cross Fair, indicating a coordinated campaign. Authorities have closed the road and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
The Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward (ISOC Region 4 Forward) disclosed that following the bombing of a streetlight pole on the Kuankalong–Ratphum road near Ban Cam Ruan Mit, Moo 8, Thung Nui subdistrict, Kuankalong district, Satun province, one electricity pole was toppled and a suspicious object was found inside the maintenance hatch of an adjacent pole. A passing truck also sustained damage with broken glass, but there were no reports of fatalities or serious injuries.
The latest progress shows that Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers have completed the initial recovery operation, successfully retrieving one unexploded improvised explosive device. Inspection confirmed it was a timer-activated IED. Officials are currently verifying evidence and gathering additional witnesses to proceed with legal action.
Preliminary examination reveals the modus operandi resembles past incidents, including the method of concealing IEDs inside steel streetlight poles and identical circuit boards to those found at the Global House incident and the Pattani Red Cross Fair bombing. Authorities are scrutinizing details and collecting further evidence.
ISOC Region 4 Forward condemned the violent group's use of explosives to create terror by hiding devices in public utilities and areas used daily by civilians, showing disregard for innocent lives and aiming to spread fear and unrest, undermining public confidence. Such acts are unacceptable as they inflict loss and destroy social peace rather than fight for the people.
Following the recovery, officers continue to examine the scene, gather more evidence, and review CCTV footage along the route to swiftly track down the perpetrators for prosecution. Traffic in the area remains closed on both sides; the public is urged to avoid the route and follow official announcements and instructions strictly.
ISOC Region 4 Forward appeals for public cooperation in monitoring local safety. If any suspicious objects or abnormalities are spotted, do not approach, touch, or move them; immediately notify local authorities or the ISOC Region 4 Forward hotline 1341. "Don't panic, but stay alert." The public is asked to closely follow official information and serve as eyes and ears for community safety, as security of life, property, and local peace is a shared responsibility. Cooperation between officials and citizens is key to preventing violence and maintaining sustainable safety.
