Security in the Deep South of Thailand
This is to alert U.S. citizens of a recent rise of violence in the deep south of Thailand in the border provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala.
Last month, at least 50 violent incidents killed over 30 people and injured almost 40 others. There is the possibility that foreigners, including westerners, may be targeted in this region.
We remind you that the deep south of Thailand has experienced almost daily incidents of criminally and politically motivated violence for several years, including acts attributed to armed local separatist groups. Although the separatist groups have primarily targeted security officials and Thai government interests in the southern provinces, they sometimes target public and commercial areas, including railways and areas where foreigners may congregate.
The U.S. Embassy prohibits its personnel from traveling to the far south of Thailand -- Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala provinces -- without prior approval, and Embassy personnel may go there only on work-essential travel. U.S. Embassy and Consulate personnel must provide advance notification of travel to Songkhla province, and they are advised to use hotels outside Hat Yai’s central business district. The Department of State urges you to defer non-emergency travel to these areas. If you must travel to these areas, you should exercise special caution and remain vigilant with regard to your personal security. You should be aware that Thai authorities have on occasion instituted special security measures in affected areas, such as curfews, military patrols, or random searches.
SOURCE: US EMBASSY THAILAND
This is to alert U.S. citizens of a recent rise of violence in the deep south of Thailand in the border provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala.
Last month, at least 50 violent incidents killed over 30 people and injured almost 40 others. There is the possibility that foreigners, including westerners, may be targeted in this region.
We remind you that the deep south of Thailand has experienced almost daily incidents of criminally and politically motivated violence for several years, including acts attributed to armed local separatist groups. Although the separatist groups have primarily targeted security officials and Thai government interests in the southern provinces, they sometimes target public and commercial areas, including railways and areas where foreigners may congregate.
The U.S. Embassy prohibits its personnel from traveling to the far south of Thailand -- Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala provinces -- without prior approval, and Embassy personnel may go there only on work-essential travel. U.S. Embassy and Consulate personnel must provide advance notification of travel to Songkhla province, and they are advised to use hotels outside Hat Yai’s central business district. The Department of State urges you to defer non-emergency travel to these areas. If you must travel to these areas, you should exercise special caution and remain vigilant with regard to your personal security. You should be aware that Thai authorities have on occasion instituted special security measures in affected areas, such as curfews, military patrols, or random searches.
SOURCE: US EMBASSY THAILAND
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