Thailand’s security forces arrest 5 suspects linked to BRN insurgents behind a coordinated bomb plot targeting Phuket and southern tourist hotspots. Fifteen devices meant to spread fear, not kill. Attacks aimed to pressure government talks. Tourism remains secure amid tightened safety measures and protocols rapidly introduced.
Thailand’s Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 confirmed on Monday that the recent bombings targeting southern tourist hotspots were masterminded by the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN). This militant insurgent group is behind years of unrest in the Deep South. Five suspects were arrested after authorities found 15 explosive devices planted across 11 key locations. Targets included Phuket International Airport and busy tourist sites in Phang Nga, Phuket and Krabi.
Officials stress the bombs were not designed to kill but to spark fear and chaos. The coordinated attack, planned over months with significant resources, aimed to send a clear message: Thailand’s booming tourism industry is vulnerable.
The BRN’s goal is to force the government back to the negotiation table. Peace talks collapsed earlier this year, and the group now appears to be using violence to gain leverage.
This latest strike shows the insurgents’ willingness to escalate beyond traditional conflict zones. It puts Thailand’s vital southern tourism hubs directly in the crosshairs.
Coordinated bomb attacks in southern Thailand target tourism hubs. Aim to pressure government talks
On June 30, 2025, authorities provided an update on a string of coordinated bomb incidents in southern Thailand. The press briefing was held at Sirithon Camp in Pattani’s Yarang District. Colonel Kiatsak Neewong, spokesman for the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Command, led the session.
Two suspects were arrested in Phang Nga Province. They were identified as Mr. Muhama Wading and Mr. Sulaiman Gasa, both residents of Pattani. Notably, police found several improvised explosive devices in their possession. The suspects were apprehended near the Phang Nga Provincial Hall intersection. Earlier, on June 24 at 3:30 a.m., a suspicious incident led to intensified investigations.
Following the arrest, the suspects were transferred to Provincial Police Region 9 for deeper questioning. Their behaviour resembled patterns seen in prior incidents in the Southern Border Provinces.
Upon further analysis, investigators confirmed a critical detail. The explosive circuits recovered matched those frequently used in previous BRN-linked attacks. As a result, officials suspect that the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) was behind this recent plot.
Arrests and bomb discoveries link southern attacks directly to Barisan Revolusi Nasional insurgents
According to police, small bombs were assembled in the South and moved north gradually. These were transported using both primary and secondary roads. Additionally, accomplices with no prior criminal records helped pass checkpoints without drawing attention.
Moreover, interrogations revealed alarming patterns. The suspects reportedly travelled in and out of Thailand three times to plan attacks. These meetings occurred on December 18–19, 2024; January 13–14, 2025 and April 23–24, 2025.
During those trips, they reportedly met commanders Mr. Tao Fit and Mr. Saifuddin Haji Puteh. Together with 14 supporters, they orchestrated the plan. The support network was broken into four roles.
Firstly, three people were responsible for buying cars in Bangkok. Secondly, five people took delivery of these vehicles. Thirdly, four individuals transported them to the attackers. Lastly, two drove and picked up the attackers from various locations.
Overall, police have linked the plot to 11 bomb locations, involving 15 devices in total. Four incidents occurred in Krabi Province with five bombs. One happened in Phang Nga, and six occurred in Phuket. Another device was seized alongside the arrested suspects.
Bomb plot involved complex logistics with multiple roles and transport routes across several southern provinces
Fortunately, all of the planted bombs were recovered before detonation. So far, five individuals have been arrested. These include the two main suspects and three key supporters.
As for the motive, officials believe the BRN aimed to pressure the government. Specifically, they want to push Bangkok into negotiations. Therefore, they expanded their operations outside the Southern Border Provinces.
Historically, similar events have occurred, mainly in tourist areas. This time, targets included airports and symbolic sites like the Phang Nga Governor’s residence.
Importantly, the devices were not meant to kill. They lacked shrapnel and had limited explosive force. Instead, they were designed to create fear and grab media attention.
In response, the Internal Security Operations Command urged public vigilance. People are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately. They can call 061-1732999 or ISOC Region 4’s 1341 hotline.
BRN bombs aimed to spread fear and pressure government but avoided lethal force in tourist hotspots
Additionally, the public was reminded that aiding perpetrators is a crime. Hiding suspects or providing support can lead to two years in prison or a fine of up to ฿40,000.
Meanwhile, the Thai government continues to reassure the public. Senior officials have confirmed that Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga remain secure.
On Saturday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra received a full briefing. National Police Chief General Kittirat Phanphet and other top officials presented the findings. Therefore, a high-level national response was quickly organized.
Nattareeya Thaweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, also spoke out. She emphasized that the situation is under control. She noted that tourism remains unaffected and visitor safety is paramount.
Tourist Assistance Centers remain on high alert. Officers have been directed to assist travellers and provide accurate information. Consequently, the public has shown confidence in official updates.
Government reassures public as tourism stays secure and safety measures intensify in affected provinces
Furthermore, local authorities have ramped up patrols. Surveillance and monitoring of entry points have increased significantly. Tourist zones are now under constant observation.
Crucially, officials found that the bombs targeted high-traffic areas. These included Patong Beach, Laem Phromthep and Phuket International Airport. All devices were safely deactivated.
The Prime Minister noted that the attacks appeared symbolic. She said the intent was to connect southern unrest to national political tensions. Therefore, the National Security Council is continuing its assessments.
Subsequently, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai held an emergency meeting. He emphasized gathering evidence and securing national peace.
Although investigators suspect a southern insurgency link, no final conclusion has been reached. However, the government remains fully committed to identifying all responsible individuals.
Security forces heighten vigilance after symbolic bomb threats target major key tourist and political sites
Surveillance footage helped track the suspects’ movements. They were seen placing suspicious items and later arrested en route from Phuket to Phang Nga. The arrest was made without incident.
As a direct result, security protocols have expanded. In Phuket, Governor Sophon Suwannarat chaired an urgent inter-agency meeting. Immediate changes were enacted.
These measures include full X-ray screening at airports and terminals. Police patrols now rotate through 11 key locations. Authorities have also enhanced surveillance in tourist hubs.
In addition, village leaders are now monitoring new arrivals closely. They report any suspicious activity to law enforcement promptly. Moreover, hotels and travel agencies received updated safety briefings.
Elsewhere in Krabi, online threats hinted at motorcycle bombs. Security teams quickly responded. Four public locations were swept by EOD units.
Enhanced security and surveillance measures deployed at sites following arrest of suspected bomb plotters
One suspicious motorcycle was found near the central mosque. Three bomb-like objects were discovered at tourist landmarks. Notably, none of them exploded.
Each device was cleverly hidden. Time bombs were concealed in everyday snack containers. The bombs had simple triggering systems.
Thus, the intent was psychological disruption, not physical harm. Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams neutralized all devices safely. Krabi Governor Angkur Silatevakul heightened provincial security as a result.
Government offices, malls, schools, and religious sites now have visible patrols. Both uniformed and undercover officers are active throughout the city. Surveillance systems have been expanded.
Meanwhile, in Phang Nga, new threats emerged. Two suspects returning from Phuket were tracked. Their vehicle was stopped based on CCTV surveillance.
Multiple disguised bombs found and safely neutralized as local security forces boost patrols and surveillance
A sound bomb was found near the Governor’s home. It was buried under stones and marked deliberately. The device had a 10-meter noise radius.
It was deactivated without causing harm. Authorities believe the device was intended to create panic, not injury. Consequently, more patrols have been stationed in high-risk areas.
Road checkpoints were also installed. Police are screening travellers and checking vehicles around the clock.
Despite these incidents, tourism has continued uninterrupted. The Ministry of Tourism says all services remain operational. Flights, hotels, and tours have not been affected.
Tourists are advised to stay calm and follow security instructions. International travel agents have been fully briefed. No countries have issued travel warnings.
Indeed, assistance for foreign visitors remains robust. Tourist Assistance Centers are open 24/7. Furthermore, operators and hotels are providing updates to guests.
Sound bomb and checkpoints added as tourism continues without disruption amid increased security
Thailand’s southern provinces—Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat—have long experienced unrest. A separatist insurgency has claimed thousands of lives since 2004.
Usually, the violence stays confined to border zones. However, this latest series of plots shows an alarming reach toward economic centres.
Officials ask the public to avoid spreading unverified news. False reports can cause unnecessary fear. Only verified updates will be released through official channels.
Security scare as 2 men arrested in tourist provinces near Phuket linked to non-lethal explosive devices
Lastly, the government has promised full transparency. Investigations will proceed until every individual involved is brought to justice. Public safety remains the top priority.
In a related event, a police officer was killed by a roadside bomb in Pattani. His vehicle was thrown from the highway.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn responded firmly. She urged calm but promised to pursue justice for all acts of violence.
Security will stay heightened nationwide. The government’s clear goal is to protect citizens and safeguard Thailand’s global tourism reputation.
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Further reading:
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Pheu Thai MP and former army commander in the South out of the country safe from an arrest warrant
