Anutin attributes Southern Thailand unrest to government crackdowns

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed recent unrest in Thailand’s three southern border provinces, attributing the disturbances to retaliatory actions by illegal groups. He stated that intensified government operations targeting terrorists, drug traffickers, and smugglers of contraband goods, such as illegal cigarettes, have prompted these responses.

Anutin noted that while intelligence is continuously gathered, the recent incidents appear to be designed as disruptive signals rather than direct attempts on lives. He emphasized that the government will not retreat or alter its security strategies in response to these provocations.

Regarding peace talks, the Prime Minister maintained that while negotiation remains a priority, such processes should ideally occur without violent incidents. He affirmed that the state will continue to protect citizens and property while pursuing legal action against all criminal activities.