Thai military reports more than 50 coordinated arson attacks in southern provinces

The Thai military has reported that more than 50 coordinated arson and incendiary attacks took place across the country's insurgency-hit southern border provinces on Saturday night. The attacks, described by the military as aimed at creating unrest, injured two people and damaged government buildings, a convenience store, and a stolen vehicle.

The incidents occurred between 20:00 local time (13:00 GMT) and midnight across the southern border provinces of Narathiwat, Yala, and Pattani, according to a statement by the Internal Security Operations Command. Most of the attacks were in Narathiwat province, with others in neighbouring Yala and Pattani.

Among the targets were telecommunication towers set on fire in several locations, disrupting connectivity. In the Muang district of Narathiwat, two women were injured when a bomb exploded, as reported by the Bangkok Post. Security officials advised residents not to touch suspicious objects in the affected areas.

Authorities imposed an overnight curfew in Narathiwat province following the attacks. The curfew was lifted on Sunday morning, and no further incidents had been reported by midday Sunday.

The southern border provinces of Thailand have witnessed a long-running insurgency, with separatist groups seeking greater autonomy for the predominantly Malay-Muslim region. The conflict, rooted in historical grievances and cultural identity, has claimed more than 7,000 lives since it escalated in 2004. Incidents often target symbols of the Thai state, including security forces, schools, and government offices.

Saturday's coordinated attacks, however, stand out for their scale and scope, involving simultaneous arson and explosive devices across multiple provinces. While no group has claimed responsibility, security analysts suggest the coordinated nature indicates organisational capability among insurgent networks.

Local residents have expressed concern over the renewed violence, which comes amid a fragile peace process. The Thai government has repeatedly called for dialogue, but previous negotiations have stalled. Security forces remain on high alert, with additional patrols and checkpoints deployed in the affected areas.

The attacks have also raised concerns about economic impact, particularly in Narathiwat, where small businesses and public infrastructure suffered damage. Local authorities are assessing the full extent of the destruction and have promised compensation for affected civilians.

The Thai military's statement urged calm and called on the public to cooperate with security agencies. The government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, while also acknowledging the need to address underlying grievances through peaceful means.

The overnight curfew, though short-lived, affected routine activities in Narathiwat. Schools and businesses resumed operations on Sunday morning, but security measures remain stepped up. The incident highlights the persistent challenges in Thailand's southern provinces, where decades of distrust and violence continue to disrupt lives and hinder developmental progress.