Nearly 80 Arson Attacks in Southern Thailand – Separatists Suspected

Southern Thailand experienced a wave of nearly 80 arson attacks over the weekend, resulting in three injuries and widespread property damage. Authorities are pointing to separatists as the likely perpetrators, although no group has claimed responsibility for the coordinated incidents.

The attacks, which occurred across the four southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani, and Songkhla, targeted a variety of locations including government buildings, vehicles, shops, and electricity infrastructure. While most were minor, a 24-hour convenience store and a railway line were among the more prominent targets, the latter requiring temporary closure.

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The authorities suspect that separatists are behind the attacks.

This region, bordering Malaysia, has a long history of unrest fueled by the predominantly Muslim population's desire for greater autonomy. The area was once part of a Malay sultanate before becoming part of Thailand. Separatist violence has claimed approximately 7,800 lives since 2004, with the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) being a prominent group.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has urged the police to ensure public safety and imposed a curfew in Narathiwat province. His government has recently sought to revive stalled peace talks with the BRN, which began in 2013 but have yet to yield significant results. The exact reason for the sudden surge in attacks remains unclear, but such incidents have never fully ceased in the region.

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The Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called on the police on Monday to ensure public safety.