Thai PM Orders Heightened Security, Reinforcements Amidst Worsening Southern Situation

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul acknowledged that the situation in the southern provinces is "very bad" following an attack that killed five paramilitary rangers and injured several others, including a child, near the Bu-Gae Sa Mi checkpoint in Narathiwat province. The Prime Minister has instructed all security agencies, particularly the military, police, and civilian administration, to enhance their capabilities in prevention, suppression, and intelligence gathering. Discussions with responsible parties were held yesterday (July 22), and concrete actions are expected. Regarding the frequent occurrence of such incidents, the Prime Minister stated that while they are unpredictable, such violence must not be tolerated. He has given clear policy directives to security officials to alleviate public anxiety by employing all necessary measures. This includes accelerating negotiation progress and reinforcing security personnel to be better prepared. When asked if this indicated an escalation of violence, especially given the incident occurred in a security-sensitive area, the Prime Minister reiterated his order to security chiefs to take all possible actions to restore public confidence and ensure peace. The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Police, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior have all received clear directives. Addressing concerns about intelligence failures, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Minister of Defence will visit the area today (July 23) for discussions. He also emphasized the need for heightened vigilance at all points, stating, "We must be vigilant at all points. I have instructed that extremely strict measures be implemented because incidents are occurring very frequently." The Prime Minister did not answer a question regarding the impact of the incident on the peace dialogue process, stating, "Okay, guests are waiting," before leaving the Thai Khu Fah building at Government House. Source: INN News