An academic in Yala has criticized the slow progress in peace talks in the deep South following a car bomb explosion outside police flats in this southern border province on June 30.
The explosion occurred outside flats belonging to Bannang Sata police station at about 10:30 AM, near the Bannang Sata district office and a local market. Sixteen people, including six police officers, were injured, and an Islamic religious teacher, Rokiyoh Sarana, 45, was killed while passing by.
Insurgent groups in the deep South remain active, targeting state officials despite ongoing peace talks, which undermines national security, said Tayudin Usman, a lecturer of Humanities and Social Sciences at Yala Rajabhat University.
“This incident should have never happened, especially in a busy town area. The fact that an Islamic teacher was killed makes the situation even more vulnerable, and efforts must be made to prevent any further losses,” he said.
Mr. Tayudin criticized the peace dialogue panel established to resolve the conflict in the region for showing no progress in maintaining peace. He noted that such incidents often occur when there are disagreements at the talks and urged insurgent groups to consider the consequences of their actions on innocent people. He added that the talks would continue once the Thai side makes certain concessions.
Romdon Hayiawae, assistant secretary-general of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC), stated that the government will assist the family of the deceased woman, providing 500,000 baht in compensation, a sack of rice, and support for the education of her three children until they graduate with bachelor’s degrees.
Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong said Provincial Police Region 9 had invoked martial law and the emergency decree on public administration to apprehend suspects for interrogation. Custodial interrogation, which can take up to 30 days, will be conducted under the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act.
Mustafa Malae, 27, an assistant civil engineer, is the chief suspect.
