The alert, published by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller advisory service, follows the recent discovery of a bomb near Phuket International Airport, which advises travellers to arrive well ahead of scheduled flights.
“Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks anywhere across Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket,” the advisory said, citing an ongoing risk of terrorism across the country.
Explosives found, arrests made in southern Thailand
Thai authorities reported discovering and defusing multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) across Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga earlier this week. According to Thai officials, two men in their 20s were arrested in connection with planting the devices. The suspects were allegedly linked to a long-running separatist movement in Thailand’s far south.
While no casualties or damage were reported, Thai military sources indicated the devices appeared designed to cause panic and disrupt tourism rather than inflict harm. Forensic analysis is ongoing.
However, Phuket’s governor, Sophon Suwannarat, downplayed the threat, stating initial inspections did not confirm the presence of functional explosives.
“Based on current evidence, none of the suspicious items found so far are explosive or destructive,” he said, adding that investigations were continuing.
What did the Thailand travel warning recommend?
Thailand remains a top travel destination for Australians, particularly beach cities like Phuket, renowned for its scenic coastline, nightlife, and cuisine. In light of recent developments, the
Australian government recommends heightened vigilance, especially in crowded public areas, airports, and nightlife districts.
Travellers are also advised to:
- Avoid political demonstrations
- Remain alert in bars and clubs
- Take precautions against food and drink spiking
The southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, which border Malaysia, are under a “Do Not Travel” advisory due to a long-running insurgency in the region. These areas have seen routine attacks over the years, but incidents in tourist centres like Phuket are rare.
Who is behind the explosives?
The alleged connection to the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), a group behind a decades-long insurgency in Thailand’s deep south, remains under investigation. Analysts are divided on whether the group has extended its operations beyond its usual strongholds.
Dr. Greg Raymond of the Australian National University expressed skepticism, noting that BRN has not typically targeted northern tourist zones like Phuket.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade noted that the security situation in Thailand can be unpredictable, with large protests and occasional unrest in Bangkok and other cities.
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