Violence continued in southern border provinces of Pattani and Yala last night as armed assailants attacked three petrol stations, leaving one person injured and causing extensive damages.
The first attack occurred at about 11.08pm at a PT petrol station on Highway 15, in Sateng Nok sub-district of Yala’s Muang district.
Explosions triggered a large blaze, sending flames and thick smoke billowing into the air and causing panic among nearby residents.
Witnesses told investigators that about six men dressed in black arrived at the station on two motorcycles. They fired one or two shots into the air, to scare employees and customers into fleeing, before an explosion occurred sparking a massive fire.
About 20 minutes later, two more petrol stations in Pattani were attacked.
The explosions occurred at the PT Pawa branch, in Sai Buri district, and at the PT Bo Muang branch, in Yaring district, causing severe damage to both stations.
Preliminary investigations found that the attackers used similar tactics at both locations. They arrived on motorcycles in a group of at least six, armed with firearms and improvised explosive devices.
The group divided to plant explosives at fuel pumps before fleeing the scene. The resulting fires were later brought under control by firefighters.
One civilian was injured in the attack on the Pawa petrol station.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Forensics officers are expected at all three scenes this morning, as investigators work to determine whether the attacks were coordinated and to identify those responsible.
