Pulo calls for peace

In a short statement sent to The Nation on Tuesday, the exiled leader said he "wish to make clear that Pulo is fully committed to finding a peaceful resolution t the conflict in Patani that has cost more than 3,000 lives since 2004."

"I also give my full support and blessing to those who represent Pulo engaged in official dialogue with the Royal Thai Government. Pulo has no wish to perpetuate violence and is willing to listen to proposals from the Royal Thai Government to build confidence, reduce violence and eventually agree on a lasting solution to the conflict," the statement said.

Tengku Biro, also known as Kabir Abdul Rahman, founded Pulo in 1968 while studying abroad in India. Since then the movement has splintered into various factions but the ageing leader continue to be the respected figure head of the movement.

Echoing Tengku Biro's statement was another exiled group, the General Union of The Patani Revolutionary Students' (GUPRS). The group said it welcomed the "ongoing dialogue between the Royal Thai Government and representatives of Pulo and BRN Coordinate" and urged all parties to "accelerate the dialogue process in the interests of bringing lasting peace and justice to the people of Patani."

GUPS, established in 1974 by Malay Muslims from southern Thailand, is currently under the leadership of Amin Abdulwahab.

Intelligence sources said secret dialogue between Thai military and members of the long standing groups have been stepped up over the past over the past recent years as the new generation of militants step up their campaign of violence in the deep South.

The extent of the influence between the old standing groups have over the new generation of insurgents. Just as unclear is the aims and objectives of the secret dialogue Thai government and the exiled groups.

The Nation