Narathiwat checkpoint bombing injures four amid security concerns

A motorcycle rigged with explosives was detonated yesterday at 9.35pm, at a safety zone checkpoint in Tha Phraya Sai, Narathiwat province, injuring four individuals including two volunteer defence corps members and two civilian women caught in the bombing radius.

Deputy Investigator Itthiphol Malikul of Mueng Narathiwat Police Station received the report of the explosion, which occurred in front of the Tha Phraya Sai dam on Phupha Phakdi Road within the municipal area of Narathiwat town.

He immediately rushed to the scene along with Police Colonel Prachya Baitae, the station chief, as well as other police, military, and administrative forces.

At the scene, the authorities found that the perpetrators had concealed the bomb within a motorcycle and triggered the explosion, causing a loud bang that shook the area and engulfed the vicinity in flames.

The blast resulted in injuries to four individuals, including two volunteer defence corps officers and two young women who are in critical condition. Rescue workers from the Mettatham Foundation swiftly transported the injured to Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Hospital for treatment.

The explosion also created panic among locals who were shopping nearby at a market approximately 200 meters away from the dam. People fled the scene in chaos, while authorities worked quickly to evacuate the area for public safety, fearing the possibility of additional explosives hidden in the vicinity.

Orchestrated attack

The initial belief of the authorities was that the attack was orchestrated by insurgents aiming to disrupt the peace in the southern border provinces of Thailand.

Further examination of the scene and evidence collection by the officials are scheduled for today, with an intensive investigation to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

This violent incident has once again highlighted the ongoing security concerns in Thailand’s southern border region, where sporadic attacks by separatist groups have been a longstanding issue.

The Thai government has implemented various measures, including the establishment of safety zones and increased military presence, to curb the violence and protect the lives of both officials and civilians, reported Khaosod.

The community in Narathiwat, as well as the families of the injured, are currently grappling with the aftermath of the attack, with hopes for a swift recovery for the victims and a return to tranquillity in the area.

The authorities are calling for public cooperation and vigilance as they continue to investigate and prevent further incidents that threaten the safety and well-being of the region’s residents.