Pattani: The Army Commander visited the southern border provinces to discuss with the security sector to increase intelligence work, strengthen proactive measures, and strictly control security after finding attempts to cause incidents outside the area.
According to Thai News Agency, General Pana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and Deputy Director of Internal Security Operations, led a group of Royal Thai Army commanders to the southern border provinces. They convened a meeting with security agencies to discuss security measures at the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Command in Sirindhorn Camp, Yarang District, Pattani Province.
The Army Commander listened to a briefing from the ISOC Region 4 unit on the results of operations and the current situation. Despite a decrease in incidents, violent groups continue to create situations impacting public safety, including actions against security officers, bombings, and other disruptive activities during Eid al-Adha. The briefing also highlighted attempts to cause unrest beyond the southern border provinces, targeting tourist attractions in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga provinces in late June 2015.
During the meeting, the Army Commander emphasized the need for strict preventive measures against incidents both inside and outside the southern border provinces. By utilizing intelligence in conjunction with tactical work, the authorities aim to stay ahead of the situation and improve proactive plans. ISOC Region 4 reported incidents of unrest linked to violent groups, prompting a request for an action plan to thwart these attempts. Measures include intensified checkpoints, monitoring the movement of weapons, and close coordination with relevant security units. Additionally, investigations will be expedited to track down perpetrators and dismantle their networks. Maintaining relationships with local communities is also crucial to building trust and confidence in government officials.
In the afternoon, General Pana traveled to Narathiwat Province to inspect and encourage operational personnel, including soldiers at the 2nd Border Defense Company and members of the Volunteer Defense Corps. He engaged in discussions with local unit commanders to understand the situation better and offered additional suggestions. To boost morale, he distributed consumer goods to officers working in these units, conveying the Commander-in-Chief's concern and support.