15 killed in suspected rebel attacks in Thailand's South: Army

About 15 were killed and four people injured in a suspected Muslim rebel attack in Southern Thailand on November 6 informed an army official to the media. The casualties amount to the largest death toll in a single day so far this year in the country. Over 7000 Malay-Muslims have been killed in 15 years as a result of the insurgency. Thailand southern army spokesman Pramote Prom-in told the news agency that on November 5, militants struck two checkpoints in Yala province manned by civil defense volunteers, opening fire on them as a group of villagers stopped to talk.

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The rebels shot dead 12 at the scene, two more (died) at the hospital, and one died this morning. They also took M-16 rifles and shotguns from the checkpoints, added Pramote. The spokesperson concluded that the shooting scene has been closed off and is being investigated by a forensic team. 

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Malay-Muslim rebels fight against Buddhist majority Thai state

Malay-Muslim rebels fight against the Buddhist majority Thai state which colonized their area over a century ago. Though both the rebels and the Thai military attack and retaliate, civilians from both the communities often get caught in the crossfire and lose their lives. Though the reports of attacks have been scanty lately the attacks have turned more intense. Don Pathan, security and conflict analyst said in an interview that the attacks are a reminder that the rebels exist. Malay Muslims accuse the Thai Government of sidelining their ethnicity and culture and conduct routine abuses. 

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Attacks after the detention of a Malay-Muslim

Months ago, Abdulloh Esormusor, a Malay Muslim who was detained at the Thai detention center was found dead. Such detentions are common in Thailand and have been reported to be torturous. Abdulloh's detention has led to the killing of four in a late-night attack on a military outpost, fuelling speculation of a retaliatory operation. Moreover, there were bomb attacks at a major summit attended by top diplomats, including US secretary of state Mike Pompeo after few weeks which injured another four. Investigations revealed that the detonations were similar to the ones found in Southern Thailand. 

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(With inputs from agencies)

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