BANGKOK, July 24 – The Deputy Prime Minister Gen Yuthasak Sasiprapa on Tuesday said that the strategy to tackle violence in Thailand’s insurgency-torn southern border region will be adjusted following continued attacks in the area.
The deputy premier overseeing national security, speaking on security measures to be taken during Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, commented at today’s Cabinet meeting.
Gen Yuthasak said security concerned agencies have closely monitored insurgent moves around the clock and there were warnings to the authorities on possible attacks before Ramadan.
The deputy premier admitted that Friday’s bombing was unexpected as it occurred in the business district and that concerned officials would have to adjust their strategy.
He said there were still some defects in the strategic responses although intelligence operations have improved.
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has ordered the setup of more “safety zones” and installation of closed circuit televisions covering all key areas, according to the deputy premier.
Gen Yuthasak added the prime minister will chair a meeting on violence in southern border provinces early August.
The premier is expected to discuss the solution in overall in the far South and integrated adjustment of operations without any budget cuts.
Regarding last Friday’s car bomb which injured eight people and set ablaze a commercial building in Narathiwat’s Sungai Kolok district, Gen Yuthasak said an investigation was progressing and that security officials are tracking suspects who have already been identified.
