Bomb found near French consulate in Chiang Mai

CHIANG MAI, Jan 1 (TNA) - An explosive device was spotted at the base of a tree on a footpath on Charoen Prathet Road near Chai Mongkol temple opposite the French consulate at the center of the northern province of Chiang Mai. Bomb experts destroyed it with a high-pressure water gun and security authorities were examining surveillance camera footage to look for a suspect. The incident shocked tourists including foreigners who stay in the area. Authorities believe that the bomb was aimed at creating unrest to ruin the tourism atmosphere of Chiang Mai during the New Year festival. Security authorities held an urgent meeting to assess local situations. (TNA)