Insurgents bomb ATM, set fire to Songkhla office, no injuries

Insurgents are believed to be behind the bombing of an ATM booth and a fire at a local government office in Saba Yoi district, Songkhla province, early yesterday. No injuries were reported.

The ATM booth, located in front of the Ban Nod Tambon Administration Organisation (TAO) office, was targeted by a bomb around 1.50am, yesterday, September 14, according to Police Lieutenant Nathan Khemisaranon. Simultaneously, the TAO office was set ablaze, damaging the building and several parked vehicles. Fortunately, no one was injured in the attack.

Bomb disposal officers were deployed to the site this morning to ensure no additional explosives had been planted. They discovered that one fire truck was damaged in the arson attack. A more thorough assessment of the building’s damage is scheduled for tomorrow.

Initial investigations indicate that approximately six assailants were involved. After detonating the bomb at the ATM booth, the attackers entered the TAO office and set it on fire. They fired over 10 gunshots into the building before escaping on three motorcycles. Security camera footage captured their escape.

Police suspect that these acts are part of a broader effort by insurgents to incite unrest in the area, reported Bangkok Post.

The insurgency, which has been ongoing for two decades, primarily affects the neighbouring provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani. However, incidents in Songkhla have become more frequent in recent years.

In related news, a bomb attack injured six members of a local security unit in Cho Airong District, Narathiwat Province, while they were on patrol to protect teachers. The assailants fled after a brief exchange of gunfire with the authorities.

Reports indicate that the incident occurred when the security team, riding motorcycles, was patrolling to ensure the safety of teachers, only 400 metres from their base. The bomb, hidden in a drainpipe under the road, detonated at approximately 7.30am. The blast resulted in injuries to six officers.