23-9-2024 (BANGKOK) A daring raid on the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Thailand’s southern province of Narathiwat has escalated tensions in the region, as security sources report that the perpetrators have likely fled across the border into Malaysia. The attack, which involved bombings and arson, has left local authorities scrambling to respond and raised concerns about cross-border security.
According to military sources speaking on Monday, the group responsible for Sunday’s assault is believed to be led by Manso Puteh, a notorious insurgent leader wanted on multiple arrest warrants for armed attacks in Thailand’s restive deep South. The audacious nature of the attack and the subsequent escape have highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Thai security forces in the region.
Major General Chalermporn Chamkhiew, commander of the Narathiwat Taskforce, personally led a joint team of police and military officers, including bomb disposal experts, to inspect the devastated site at the sanctuary in Weng district’s tambon Loh Jude. The general’s findings paint a picture of a well-coordinated and destructive operation.
“The insurgents detonated three homemade bombs, causing extensive damage to the sanctuary’s office building and setting ablaze three staff residences,” Maj Gen Chalermporn reported. He added that one of the explosives was specifically used to breach a safe containing 10 shotguns, which were subsequently stolen by the attackers. In a chilling detail, it was revealed that four staff members were tied up during the raid.
The attack unfolded in two stages, with the first bomb detonating at 10:03 am on Saturday, followed by two more explosions at 11:00 am on Sunday. These subsequent blasts completely demolished the office building, leaving behind a scene of utter destruction.
Forensic teams have been working diligently at the site, collecting shrapnel and digital timers in hopes of uncovering fingerprints or other evidence that might lead to the identification of the perpetrators. Maj Gen Chalermporn noted that the use of timing devices in the bombs suggested a level of sophistication in the attack’s planning and execution.
The Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary, often referred to as the “Amazon of ASEAN,” is a critical ecological site straddling the provinces of Yala and Narathiwat. Known for its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary is home to various wild animals and serves as a crucial habitat for up to 10 species of hornbills, which arrive in large seasonal flocks.
This attack not only represents a serious security breach but also poses a threat to the delicate ecosystem of the sanctuary. Environmental experts are concerned about the potential long-term impacts on the wildlife, particularly the hornbill population, which may be disrupted by the violence and destruction.
The incident has reignited discussions about the ongoing insurgency in Thailand’s southern provinces and the challenges of maintaining security in the border regions. The reported escape of the insurgents into Malaysia underscores the complex nature of cross-border cooperation in combating such militant activities.
