Militants Launch 10 Attacks in Southern Thailand, 2 Injured

BANGKOK, August 23. /TASS/. Two people were injured as a result of 10 attacks on civilian infrastructure carried out by militants operating in southern Thailand, according to the Thai PBS television channel. The incidents occurred late on Saturday evening in the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. The perpetrators set fire to vehicles belonging to utility services, damaged cell phone towers, and attacked administrative buildings and a shop. As a result of an explosive device detonation, two women sustained shrapnel injuries. Lieutenant General Norathip Poinok, the commander of the Royal Thai army's 4th army region, ordered an immediate investigation into the incidents, to take control of the situation and ensure safety of the people. The military and police were placed on high alert, and patrols of roads and key facilities were intensified. The authorities urged local residents to stay at home and report any suspicious persons or objects. The armed conflict in the Muslim south of Thailand has been ongoing for over 70 years. Armed groups have been particularly active since 2004. They are seeking to separate the region and establish a sultanate in the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. After the conflict escalated, more than 7,000 people were killed and over 13,000 injured. Militants in these provinces periodically carry out raids, attacking police officers and local defense forces. These regions are located far from popular tourist routes, so they do not pose a threat to the tourists visiting the kingdom.