#southernthailand

At least 10 explosions rocked the turbulent Phatthalung and Satun provinces, say police.

The ex-IGP says the challenge now is to unite the different separatist groups in the region.

This comes after bomb blasts and shootings in Narathiwat and Songkhla.

Security forces involved in Ranget shootout, while bombs exploded in Chana, Sisakorn and Takbai.

The visit is seen as vital to break the deadlock in peace talks in southern Thailand.

EXCLUSIVE | Pulo says ex-IGP brings 'momentum' to the talks, and expects to move towards negotiating table.

‘Our constitution expressly stipulates instances where PM has prerogative - and picking facilitators isn’t one of them.’

Thai government adopting peaceful means in resolving the conflict, Prayuth says.

The company is said to have deep business interests in southern Thailand.

The bomb, planted on a dirt road, exploded as soldiers on a routine patrol were passing, in Pattani. 

Thailand is committed to resolving the conflict in its south, says a gov’t spokesperson.

In the 8.30am (local time) incident, four policemen and four civilians were also injured.

But the Thai DPM says both sides would not sign any pact on terms of reference tomorrow.

Areas that accepted the draft constitution prone to such violence, he adds.

The authorities have ruled out terrorism.