Dual detonation bomb surprises bomb experts
A bomb with suspected double detonation killed three soldiers, including a bomb expert, at a naval base in Narathiwat yesterday. Six soldiers were injured. The 25 kilogram bomb placed in a gas cylinder exploded after an explosives team believed they had defused the bomb and declared it safe.
The bomb was discovered near a bridge when soldiers removed banners with texts against the peace talks between Thailand and rebel group BRN. Banners were also put up in Pattani and Yala provinces. They contain the text in Malay: 'Peace will not come if talks are not held with the real owners'.
Marine commander Surasak Rounroengrom called the dual-circuit bomb "unexpected." Never before have insurgents manufactured such a bomb. The Explosive Ordinance Disposal team had cut the electrical circuit in the bomb, after which the bomb was brought to the base for further examination. Four vehicles and military equipment were also damaged in the blast.
Also in Narathiwat, a second bomb exploded yesterday. It was also placed with banners. A soldier was injured in his leg. Banners were put up in 64 places in the province. 16 banners were found in Yala.
A third bomb exploded in Rangae (Narathiwat) district. Five people, including two children, were injured. The bomb exploded as the victims approached a bridge in a pickup truck.
According to Paradorn Pattanatabut, secretary general of the National Security Council, who is leading the peace talks, the texts on the banners indicate that separatists who are not yet participating in the talks want to join. He said any group that wants to join the peace efforts is welcome.
The second meeting is scheduled for Monday. Like last time in March, meetings will be held in Kuala Lumpur under the watchful eye of Malaysia. Paradorn hopes that it will then become clear which groups want to participate in the peace process. Defense Minister Sukumpol Suwanatat said the talks help authorities determine which groups support and which do not support efforts to end the violence.
(Source: Bangkok Post, Apr 23, 2013)