INFORMATION: While the government pursues negotiations with militants in the south, peace talks will continue to face significant barriers. The government on 31 January said that, as part of efforts to facilitate peace talks with Malay-Muslim insurgents in Thailand’s far south, it had sent a technical team to meet the Majlis Syura (MARA) Patani umbrella organisation, which claims to represent all main militant groups. Preliminary progress in peace talks and tighter security are likely responsible for the recent decline in violent incidents; attacks in the southern provinces in 2015 reportedly dropped to 674, the lowest level since major hostilities began in 2004. Despite ongoing peace talks, small-scale bombings and shootings will remain persistent threats in the southern provinces, though the insurgency is unlikely to expand beyond the far south. Businesses in Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and parts of Songkhla provinces (including the urban area of Hat Yai) are unlikely to be directly targeted, but remain susceptible to property damage. The security forces remain primary targets, but an 18 January attack in Songkhla suggests that indiscriminate attacks cannot be ruled out. So far, there is no strong evidence of intent on the part of southern separatist groups to attack the capital Bangkok.
SECURITY GUIDANCE:
• Normal travel to Thailand can continue.
• Travel to Songkhla should be for essential purposes only.
• All first time travelers to Songkhla need a Security induction from Security prior to their visit.
• Travellers intending to visit the region should seek itinerary-specific advice from the Coastal office.
• Particular caution is required in the selection of accommodation; overnight stays in Hat Yai should be avoided where possible.
• Maintain a high level of personal security awareness and avoid spending time around potential targets, which include government buildings, police stations, army checkpoints and convoys, schools, religious sites, entertainment venues, hotel lobbies, transport hub and commercial centres.
• Contact Security for further information