Royal Thai Army’s Commander visits the disputed area in the south

The commander of the 36th at Narathiwat, Sittipon Julpana , recently visited the area disputed between Thai Buddhists and Thai Muslims. The purpose of this meeting was to talk and try to spread understanding between the factions, not to foster paranoia or worsen the dispute.

The discussion centered on the shootings of Thai Buddhist citizens in the area by Pattani criminals, and the shootings in the three disputed provinces in the south. These shootings have been a firebrand, leading Thai Buddhists to harbor unfriendly suspicions toward Thai Muslims, and helping those trying to create discord among citizens.

After Julpana cleared the air with community leaders and religious leaders in the area of Su-Ngai Kolok, most citizens showed understanding. Both groups have volunteered to help monitor harmony and peace in their community, and prevent further disruptive incidents.

Moreover, the military has been deploying to protect all the citizens in the area, because every area community is at the same level of risk.

In the area of Su-Ngai Kolok and along the border, the royal thai army has deployed armament, and patrols to secure the area, monitor for agitators, and prevent illegal entrance or exit at the border.