Phuket safe, confirm police after US issues world-wide travel alert

PHUKET: Phuket Provincial Police confirmed that international-quality security was in place ahead of the United States Embassy in Bangkok sending a security message to US citizens yesterday.

The US travel alert set to expire on February 26 stated: “The State Department alerts US citizens to possible risks of travel due to increased terrorist threats. Current information suggests that ISIL (aka Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, using conventional and non-conventional weapons and targeting both official and private interests.”

However, Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Peerayuth Karajedee assured that all necessary security measures were already in place on the island.

“We have been keeping a close eye on all criminal activity on the island, especially with the Loy Krathong celebration taking place this week,” Col Peerayuth told the Phuket Gazette yesterday. “Though there might be an attack abroad or elsewhere in Thailand, we are always prepared.”

Col Peerayuth confirmed that Internal Security Operations Command, military and police officers are ready to be deployed if necessary to ensure public safety.

“I would like to urge everyone not to panic. However, keep your ears and eyes open. If you hear or see anything suspicious, please report it to the police immediately,” Col Peerayuth said.

Phuket Vice Governor Chokdee Amornrat confirmed to the Gazette that provincial officers were working alongside community members and the police to prevent any possible violence on the island.

“Public security and tourist safety remain our top priority. We are all working together as a single Phuket team,” Vice Gov Chokdee said.

— Chutharat Plerin