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The army believed that the martial laws are necessary to prevent threats, including narcotics, from entering the Kingdom.

"From security officers' points of view, the laws are needed to enable officials concerned to work for the sake of national security," he said.

However the government may have other reasons to consider if it really believed that the laws should be lifted.

The army boss was responding to reports that Samak government is considering lifting the martial laws issued after the coup two years ago in some northern provinces.

The military junta imposed the laws to curb movements of pro-Thaksin movement in the areas.

Gen Anupong declined to comment on Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung's idea to tackle the southern problems by setting up "special administration zones" in the troublesome provinces.

"I am not discussing the idea with the media because it is a big issue for the country. However I am more than ready to give my opinions to the interior minister if he wants," Anupong said.