Attacks expected after cameras torched in Yala

Dozens of surveillance cameras were torched yesterday in Yala, likely by insurgents, authorities said, pointing to the possibility of forthcoming large-scale attacks or vehicular bombs in the province.

According to the National Security Council, 76 camera installations were burned - a record number of cameras lost in multiple incidents in a 24-hour period. The cost of the damage is estimated at Bt3.8 million. There have been eight previous camera-torching incidents beginning in 2010, with 294 burned, smashed or stolen.

Arsonists also set fire to a cellular phone tower and a telephone booth in Bannang Sata's police jurisdiction.

The elimination of the surveillance cameras could indicate that insurgents are planning a series of large-scale attacks or vehicular bombs, officials said, citing previous torching incidents ahead of attacks or explosions.

On Sunday night in Narathiwat's Rue Soh district, three loud explosions near an Army outpost prompted soldiers to return fire as a precaution to deter a possible attack. Search parties later found residue of what they called "giant firecrackers".

Also on Sunday in Narathiwat, a suspect was apprehended in a raid. Kareeya Pi is suspected of being one of five assailants who took part in a gunfire attack and motorcycle bombing of a karaoke bar last Wednesday. Five people, including three children, were wounded in the attack.

Two other suspects are identified as Asem Bueraheng, who detonated the motorcycle bomb, and Marohmuelee Arjaekasor, who acted as the lookout. The identities of the two other suspects are still withheld.