BANGKOK, July 9 – Thailand has extended the emergency decree imposed on three southern border provinces – Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala – by another three months to ensure the safety of the people.
Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Tuesday approved the extension.
“The extension of the emergency declaration from July 20 until Oct 19 this year, marked the 77th extension since 2005,” he told reporters.
The emergency decree, which was announced in 2005, is an instrument that would enable state officials to deal with the southern situation more effectively.
It is meant for the continuation of tackling violence in the three southern border provinces and to ensure public safety, as well as protecting the people’s lives and property.
Chai said the emergency declaration in the three southern border provinces has exceptions for 15 districts. These districts include Yi-ngo, Sungai Kolok, Waeng and Sukhirin in Narathiwat; Yaring, Panare, Mayo, Mai Kaen, Thung Yang Daeng, Khok Pho, and Mae Lan in Pattani, and Betong, Raman, Kabang, and Krong Pinang in Yala.
