Post by : Badri Ariffin

Five Thai paramilitary soldiers were killed and six civilians were injured after armed attackers launched a deadly assault on a security checkpoint in Thailand's southern Narathiwat province, according to the army.

The attack happened on Wednesday evening at the Buketa Sami checkpoint in Narathiwat, one of the provinces affected by a long-running separatist conflict.

Gunfire and Pipe Bombs Used in the Assault

The Thai army said the attackers opened fire and threw pipe bombs at members of Task Force Ranger Regiment 45 while they were guarding the checkpoint.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities have not announced any arrests in connection with the incident.

The army honoured the soldiers who lost their lives, saying their "service and sacrifice will be remembered and honoured with the highest respect."

One of the Deadliest Attacks in Recent Years

Officials described the assault as one of the deadliest attacks on Thai security forces in recent years. The incident has renewed concerns over the continuing violence in Thailand's southern border region.

Car Bomb Exploded a Day Earlier

The checkpoint attack came just one day after a car bomb exploded outside the former Tanyong police station in another part of Narathiwat province.

The explosion injured one police officer and caused damage to the building. Police said they were searching for two suspects who were seen leaving the scene on a motorcycle after Tuesday's bombing.

According to reports, it was the first car bombing recorded in Thailand's southern border region this year.

Southern Provinces Continue to Face Separatist Violence

Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala provinces are mainly populated by ethnic Malay Muslims and have remained at the centre of an armed separatist conflict since 2004.

More than 7,000 people, including civilians, security personnel and fighters, have been killed during the conflict.

Peace Talks Yet to Resolve Key Issues

Formal peace talks between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), the main separatist group, were expected to resume in June following an increase in violence.

However, negotiations have continued to face challenges over issues including self-government, security arrangements and political representation.

#Global News #Thailand News #World Update #Global Updates