More than 50 coordinated arson and incendiary attacks have swept across Thailand’s insurgency-hit south.
They have raised fresh concerns about a long-running conflict that has repeatedly resisted peace efforts.
The attacks happened late Saturday across Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani, with most reported in Narathiwat.
At least two people were injured, while fires damaged a government office, a convenience store, vehicles and telecommunications towers.
Authorities said the attacks appeared designed to “create unrest”, although no group has claimed responsibility.
A bomb explosion in Narathiwat reportedly injured two women, while residents were warned to avoid suspicious objects.
An overnight curfew was imposed but lifted on Sunday morning.
Insurgency Fuels Southern Violence
So, who is behind the coordinated violence? Officials have not said, but suspicion will likely fall on separatist insurgents active in the region.
Southern Thailand has endured a low-level insurgency since 2004.
Rebels in the predominantly Muslim provinces seek greater autonomy from the Buddhist-majority country.
More than 7,000 people have been killed in the conflict.
Peace talks facilitated by Malaysia have repeatedly stalled, while violence has continued.
In July, five soldiers were killed in a gun and bomb attack in Narathiwat.
With Thailand’s prime minister due to visit the south next week.
The latest attacks are a stark reminder that the region’s security problem is far from solved.
