Suspicious car linked to Pattani bombing found abandoned in Yala

Police discovered a suspicious car linked to the recent car bomb incident in Pattani, abandoned in a rubber plantation in Yala. The vehicle, a Nissan Almera, showed signs of attempted arson and had its licence plates removed.

A bomb exploded near the entrance to the fish market bridge next to the Provincial Police Division in Pattani on August 9. Following the explosion, officials identified a suspicious vehicle, which the perpetrators allegedly purchased along with the car used in the bombing. CCTV footage later revealed a Nissan Almera with the licence plate number งน 4001 from Songkhla, connected to the bombing in Pattani.

Police from Kotabaru station in Yala were informed yesterday, August 15, of a Nissan Almera without licence plates, matching the description of the vehicle involved in the Pattani bombing. The car was abandoned in a rubber plantation in Ban Mahea, Moo 4, Buemang subdistrict, Raman district, Yala province. Upon inspection, the vehicle showed minor burn marks, and the removed licence plates were found hidden within the car.

Police have cordoned off the area, awaiting the arrival of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team for a thorough inspection today. Initial investigations suggest that the same group responsible for the Pattani bomb might be behind this incident. The suspects likely abandoned the car and attempted to destroy it to eliminate evidence, but residents discovered it in time and alerted the police, said a spokesperson.

“We believe the suspects intended to use the car for another malicious act, but due to the intense pursuit by the police, they abandoned and tried to burn the vehicle.”

Security measures have been heightened in the region following this incident, with police urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

Investigations are ongoing, and police are working to trace the origins of the vehicle and its connection to the suspects. The EOD team will conduct a detailed examination to gather more evidence, hoping it will lead them closer to apprehending those responsible, reported KhaoSod.

“Our top priority is public safety, and we are doing everything in our power to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.”