Security agencies have been ordered to intensify operations against criminal groups in its southern border provinces following the latest deadly clash between police and a drug trafficking syndicate in Narathiwat that killed two police officers and injured four others.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said authorities had been instructed to take all necessary measures to contain the situation.
He said security agencies had been given clear instructions to act decisively, adding that officers on the ground had full operational authority and did not need to seek further approval from the government before taking action.
“The army chief and deputy national police chief are leading teams to the area to oversee the response,” he told reporters at the Interior Ministry yesterday.
Anutin was referring to Sunday’s clash between police officers and a drug trafficking syndicate in Tak Bai district, Narathiwat, where Army Commander Gen Pana Klaewplodthuk and Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Samran Nuanma are overseeing operations.
Anutin said he had instructed provincial authorities to ensure the welfare of residents affected.
Asked whether the intensified crackdown on criminal groups in the southern border provinces and the postponement of the peace dialogue could worsen the situation, the prime minister said peace talks and law enforcement must proceed simultaneously.
Responding to suggestions that the unrest in the three southern border provinces was linked not only to separatist groups but also to drug trafficking and smuggling networks, Anutin said he had ordered a full-scale crackdown on narcotics.
The latest violence comes after Thailand on July 28 announced the postponement of planned peace talks with insurgent groups after a surge in attacks in the southern border. — Bernama
