Thailand on Alert: Explosives Found in Tourist Areas, Raising Terrorism Fears
Australian Government Warns Travelers Amidst Arrests and Heightened Security
The Australian government has cautioned its citizens about the ongoing dangers of terrorism across Thailand. This follows the discovery of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in popular tourist hotspots such as Phuket and Krabi, prompting increased security measures and concern.
Specific Threats
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) issued a statement on its Smartraveller website, alerting travelers to the possibility of terrorist attacks throughout Thailand. The warning specifically mentions Bangkok and Phuket as potential targets. Security has been heightened at Phuket International Airport, urging passengers to arrive early. Thai authorities have also defused devices in multiple locations and made arrests.
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“Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks anywhere across Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket.”
—Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller website
In May of 2024, the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) announced that they would no longer target civilians. This is a rare step for the group, although many feel it is not enough. The BRN has been involved in violent acts against civilians for over two decades (Council on Foreign Relations, 2023).
Deeper Dive
Thai officials apprehended two suspects allegedly linked to the BRN, a major separatist group seeking independence for Thailand’s southernmost provinces. A spokesperson for the Thai military said the suspects, both in their 20s, are believed to have planted approximately 11 IEDs in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga.
Lieutenant General Paisal Nusang stated that the devices were likely intended to disrupt economic activities in tourist areas, rather than to cause significant casualties. However, Sophon Suwannarat, the Phuket Governor, sought to downplay the danger to tourists in his province. Forensic police are conducting verification and the initial findings suggest that the devices were meant to create fear rather than cause harm.
Greg Raymond, an expert on Thailand at the Australian National University, expressed skepticism about the BRN’s involvement. He noted a lack of evidence of the insurgency’s activities outside the three border provinces for many years. He believes the suspects are “amateurs who don’t seem to have the skills” of the main insurgency group.
Additional Concerns
DFAT has also warned against travel to the southern provinces bordering Malaysia because of “ongoing risks of low-level insurgent activity, including terrorism.” Furthermore, political demonstrations have occurred in Bangkok and other regions, and the security situation in Thailand is considered unpredictable.
Pravit Rojanaphruk, a journalist, suggested that Australians who are worried consider postponing trips by a week or two. He doesn’t think it is as unsafe as other Southeast Asian countries, but being vigilant is essential. He also noted concern for beachgoers, who have been impacted by dangerous rip currents.
