BANGKOK, Thailand – Deadly attack on a Ranger unit in Narathiwat kills five, forcing Thailand to postpone peace talks with the Barisan Revolusi Nasional.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the step reflects the seriousness of the situation. Authorities are now focusing on identifying those behind the ambush.
Attack in Ra-ngae kills five rangers
Armed attackers opened fire and threw pipe bombs at a Ranger unit in Narathiwat’s Ra-ngae district. Five security personnel died, and several more were wounded.
The exact number of injured remained unclear. Four suspects are now in custody.
Four men in custody, no presumption of guilt
Authorities stressed that detaining the four suspects does not mean they are guilty. Anyone found not involved will be released.
Isoc Region 4 said all measures are being carried out strictly according to the rule of law. Security forces are following the law, officials said.
Malaysia pledges full support
Defence Minister Lieutenant General Adul Boonthumjaroen travelled to Malaysia on Wednesday. He met his counterpart Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, and both sides agreed to closer intelligence sharing.
Malaysia promised to provide information on recent incidents and boost border security. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to jointly advance peace-building efforts.
Speculation over foreign fighters dismissed for now
Foreign Minister Sihasak did not reject reports of Middle Eastern dissidents active in Thailand’s south but called for careful verification. Initial evidence points to local groups, not foreigners.
The information must be confirmed before drawing conclusions. Investigators are currently following a domestic trail, not cross-border networks.
Prime minister stays silent on delay
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul refused to comment on the postponed dialogue. He said sensitive matters should be handled by directly responsible officials.
He will only speak on fundamental political issues. Operational details of the peace process are in the hands of the experts involved, he said.
Security council to review situation this week
The National Security Council will assess developments in the south later this week. A comprehensive reassessment of regional stability is due.
Thailand officially maintains its goal of continuing the peace process. At the same time, public safety must be guaranteed and trust strengthened in the southern border provinces.