Multiple explosions rock Thailand’s tourist destinations
Co-ordinated explosions in tourist towns across Thailand have left four dead and many injured. Over the last 24 hours, sporadic explosions have affected Hua Hin, Surat Thani, Patong, Trang and Phang Nga. Explosions are still being reported at the time of writing.
Most areas that have been victim to attacks are known tourist hotspots, with places like Hua Hin, Patong and Phang Nga known for their scenic beaches. Today is also a national holiday in Thailand, marking the Thai queen’s birthday.
Currently no group has come forward to claim responsibility for the attacks, but some suspect separatist insurgents. The fight to make south Thailand a separate country has already claimed 6,000 lives, but the new attacks would represent a change in tactics from separatist groups as they have never targeted tourist before.
The UK Foreign Office has released a statement advising those tourists in the country to ‘exercise extreme caution, avoid public places, and follow the advice of local authorities’. It has also warned of a high threat from terrorism in Bangkok, though the area has so far remained unaffected.