Co-ordinated Arson Attacks Strike Dozens of Southern Thailand Businesses

Dozens of co-ordinated arson attacks have struck businesses across southern Thailand, predominantly targeting convenience stores and petrol stations. The incidents, which unfolded in the early hours, affected at least 17 locations in the provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.

Reports indicate that in Pattani province alone, 11 different FamilyMart and 7-Eleven convenience stores were set alight, alongside three petrol stations. Similar attacks were documented in Yala and Narathiwat provinces.

Thai military spokesperson Colonel Pramote Prom-in stated that the perpetrators utilised petrol bombs in the assaults, which he characterised as an attempt to "create unrest" in the region. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility from any group. These southern provinces have endured a long-standing insurgency, rooted in a historical Malay Muslim independence movement, which has claimed over 7,300 lives since 2004.

The affected area is a predominantly Malay Muslim region, annexed by Thailand over a century ago. Insurgents regularly target Thai security forces and government infrastructure; however, attacks on civilian commercial interests are also common.