Bombs Rock Thailand

As many as 22 bombs exploded near simultaneously inside of commercial banks in the southern province of Yala at approximately 1130 local time on 31 August 2006. The bombs, many of which were detonated remotely via mobile phone, were hidden inside of garbage cans, newspaper stands, women's handbags, books and folders. Others were placed in ATM booths or near customer seating areas. The attacks affected 22 of the province's 30 banks; 10 bombs exploded in the city of Yala, five exploded in Betong district, two in Yaha, one in Bannang State and one exploded in Raman district. At least two people were killed and 40 others sustained injuries. Suspected Muslim separatists are thought responsible for the attacks, and police officers have arrested at least two people.

Police officials reportedly received prior intelligence that a large-scale attack would occur on 31 August, as it is the anniversary of the founding of Bersatu -- the United Front for the Independence of Pattani -- which is an umbrella organization for various ethnic Malay rebel organizations; security had reportedly been increased throughout Thailand's southern provinces in response to the threat. Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has ordered a probe into possible security lapses. All banks in Yala province have been closed as a result of the attacks and it is not known when they will reopen, particularly as the extent of damage sustained at the affected bank branches is not known. Security has also been increased in Songkhla's Hat Yai district in an effort to prevent attacks.