No terrorists in Phuket – Vice-Governor

PHUKET: Phuket is free of terrorists, Vice-Governor Pongpow Ketthong asserted this week.

Addressing an anti-terrorism seminar at the Royal Phuket City Hotel, V/Gov Pongpow told his audience of officials that the fact that the gathering was taking place did not mean there were terrorists in Phuket, but it was important to take steps to reduce the chances of terrorist activity occurring on the island.

He said, “I can confirm that Phuket does not have terrorists. But the government has asked all provinces to draw up an anti-terrorism plan and to practise emergency procedures.”

A chain of command has been established among the various agencies involved, such as the police and provincial officials, said V/Gov Pongpow.

But he stressed that he did not believe Phuket was a terrorist target. “We want to be prepared, just in case there is an attack, and this plan could also be used in the event of a non-terrorist emergency such as a fire or a natural disaster that affects many people.”

All the same, the police are continuing to work towards minimising the threat from terrorists, by keeping a close eye on places that attract many tourists, such as beaches and pubs, said V/Gov Pongpow.

He added that the police were being helped by some hotel owners, who were inspecting guests’ cars and instructing staff to watch for people behaving suspiciously.

V/Gov Pongpow told the seminar he would like an anti-terrorism fund to be established, to raise money for “action” to reduce the chances of a terrorist attack. He did not say what this action should be.