Security tightened after multiple bomb attacks in deep South

PATTANI, May 21 (TNA) – The Fourth Army Region commander, Lt Gen Piyawat Nakwanich ordered personnel to step up security following multiple bombings in four southern provinces. Last night’s bombs at public places are intent to cause disturbance in the holy month of Ramadan. Existing evidence gives clues for the authorities to identify the assailants, said Lt Gen Pitawat. He instructed officials to provide the highest level of security in the fasting month of Ramadan, which began last week. More checkpoints will be erected. Meanwhile, authorities wrapped up the reports on series of attacks occurred at at 24 locations in total, mostly targeting ATMs. The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 4's Front Command spokesman Colonel Pramot Phrom-in said almost all of the ATMs of every bank in Pattani’s provincial seat were destroyed, affecting local residents, who are forced to carry out financial transaction through bank counters today. The spokesman said violent incidents occurred at 24 locations, including nine locations in Yala, ten locations in Pattani, three locations in Narathiwat and two locations in Songkhla. Similar explosive devices had been placed at ATMs in 14 locations. Two bombs occurred at electric poles and officials could dispose two bombs. Minor bombs, aimed to cause disturbance or suspicious objects were found at five locations. A shooting attack was reported at a military outpost in Narthiwat’s Bacho district. (TNA)