Security stepped up after Yala series of bombings

BANGKOK, Sept 15 (TNA) – Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed his condolence to families of officials, killed in the bomb attacks in Yala and ordered full compensation for their families, said government spokesman, Lt-General Sansern Kaewkamnerd. Three bombs went off in the violence-plagued province of Yala and the last one killed two officials and wounded another 27 persons, including police officials, soldiers and civilians. The prime minister instructed agencies concerned to take a proactive approach to hunt the assailants and stepped up security in the area. He told local residents not to panic as suspected insurgents launched the attack to create disturbance after the situation had earlier improved. The attack began early Thursday when a bomb exploded at a power pole in Yala’s Kabang district but caused no casualty. The second roadside bomb went off when Explosive Ordnance Disposal units and army rangers were in Yaha district on their way to examine the first bomb site. Officials exchanged gunfire with ambushers and 20 minutes later the third bomb exploded, causing a number of casualties. Police Senior Sergeant Major Anirut Chanthawong, a police officer in the bomb disposal team and Private 1st class Thanate Phuttho from the Ranger Unit 47 were killed in the incident. Among 27 injured persons are policemen, soldiers, security officials and six civilians The bathing ceremony is performed for the two dead officials today at a Buddhist temple in Yala’s provincial seat before their bodies will be sent to their hometown for religious ceremonies, said Southern army spokesman Colonel Pramote Prom-in. (TNA)