Two soldiers killed in Pattani blast

Two soldiers were killed and other two were wounded in a bomb attack in Pattani's Yarang district on Friday as they headed out to provide protection for teachers and to deliver presents for children in advance of National Children's Day on Saturday.

The victims were identified as Sgt Sahathep Pithaisong and Sgt Anurak Sunthornpak of the Pattani Special Forces. Both were killed instantly. The initial police investigation revealed that insurgents had placed explosives in a cement water pipe under a road near the entrance to Ban Baka and then hid in a rubber plantation nearby.

They triggered the explosives as the military pickup in which soldiers were travelling passed the spot. The impact of the explosion destroyed the pickup.

The soldiers were on their way to provide security protection and presents at Ban Buenae Pinae School, which was holding activities for Children’s Day. The explosion took place about one kilometre from the school.