PATTANI (Bernama): Thai authorities detained 28 individuals suspected of having links to the separatist group Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) during security and enforcement operations in the country's southern provinces from May 1 to June 30.
Deputy Spokesperson of the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 (ISOC 4) Information Centre, Col. Akvarit Shopchupol, said that during the period, authorities carried out 28 enforcement operations which led to the arrest of all the suspects.
He said three suspected BRN members were killed in a shootout with security forces, while four firearms were seized.
"During that period, a total of 27 security incidents were recorded, involving 10 shooting incidents, 14 bomb explosions, and three cases of arson involving public property," he said at a press conference here on Monday.
He added that investigations revealed all attacks carried out by the BRN targeted security personnel, while also aiming to damage infrastructure and disrupt the local economy.
During the same period, Akvarit said authorities also stepped up anti-narcotics operations, detaining 201 people suspected of drug abuse in southern Thailand.
He said the operations also led to the seizure of 4,875,076 methamphetamine tablets (yaba), 512 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine, 16 grammes of heroin and 10.74 grammes of ketamine.
Akravit said Thai authorities would continue to strengthen security and enforcement operations and remain committed to ensuring public safety and peace in southern Thailand.
-- BERNAMA
