BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered security agencies to intensify measures in Thailand’s southern border provinces following a bomb attack at a department store in Pattani, saying the government cannot remain on the defensive. Anutin, who is also interior minister, said police and military units had been instructed to coordinate closely under plans approved by the National Security Council. He said authorities must respond firmly while continuing to operate within the law. “We cannot be on the defensive all the time,” Anutin said, stressing that security officials must work more intensively during the current period of transition.
Asked about concerns that authorities appeared to be constantly responding after attacks had already occurred, Anutin said the government must enforce the law as firmly as possible. Regarding the upcoming mobile Cabinet meeting in Songkhla, Anutin said the Cabinet would focus on security while officials responsible for the southern border provinces could visit the area if circumstances allowed.
He said he would avoid visiting the three southern border provinces if his presence would require security personnel to be diverted from protecting local residents. “If going there means officers have to look after the safety of the leaders instead of the people, then we should let them take care of the people first,” he said. National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet said police had established checkpoints and launched investigations into the latest incidents. Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma has also been sent to the area to monitor the situation and coordinate with local security agencies.
