Violence in Thai South decreases between Q4 2013

BANGKOK, January 12 (TNA) - The number violent attacks in Southern Thailand fell during the fourth quarter of 2013, suggesting renewed opportunities in development, official data shows. Fourth Army Region commander Lieutenant General Sakol Chuentrakul told Sunday of the total 192 incidents recorded, only 79 were related to security matters. He said the actual number of deaths and injuries from these cases also dropped to 120 and 253 respectively, as security efforts were geared toward community development. In other updates, Somporn Siriporananond, chairman of Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, said local anti-government groups would be joining the planned city-wide shutdown of Bangkok by the People’s Democratic Reform Committee on Monday, while smaller rallies would also be held in the province of Songkhla concurrently. He said most people believe there would be no violence at the rallies and there would be no impact on local businesses, saying southern Thailand rather was affected by insurgency and falling rubber prices. (TNA)