Thailand: Samila beach (Songkhla province) reopens December 28 after bombing

Event

On Friday, December 28, Samila beach located in the southern Songkhla province has reopened to the public after bomb demolition squads completed a search of the area, following two bomb explosions reported on the evening of Wednesday, December 26 (local time). The popular beach of the Muang district was also reopened to the public around 17:00 on December 27, after bomb demolition squads completed a search of the area. Further explosions were reported in Songkhla on December 27. Authorities suspect the Barisan Revolusi Nasional insurgent group of being behind the attacks.

Context

Songkhla is one of south Thailand's four Muslim majority provinces (along with Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala) affected by a violent separatist insurgency. Since 2004, daily violence in these areas have killed nearly 7 000 people.

Advice

As a reminder, some Western governments advise against nonessential travel to Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and the south of Songkhla. Individuals in these areas should remain cautious and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.