NARATHIWAT – Authorities imposed an immediate curfew across the entire province last night after assailants torched a local administrative office and unleashed a wave of bombings in Ra-ngae district, underscoring the volatile standoff gripping Thailand’s southern border region.
The Bongor Subdistrict Administrative Organization building was stormed around 8 pm by an estimated 30 attackers who tied up security guards before setting the premises ablaze. The group fled in a seized pick‑up truck, later found burnt and abandoned.
Explosions were reported in multiple locations across Narathiwat, though officials confirmed there were no immediate casualties.
Responding swiftly, local authorities announced a curfew effective until 6 am, today, citing public safety and the need to stabilize the situation.
The attacks mark the latest surge in violence in Thailand’s restive south, where separatist insurgents have waged a decades‑long campaign against Bangkok’s rule.
Narathiwat, along with neighbouring provinces Pattani and Yala, has endured recurring ambushes, bombings and arson attacks despite repeated peace talks.
Last night’s assault comes amid heightened tensions, with security forces already on alert following weeks of escalating incidents.
The curfew signals the government’s determination to clamp down on insurgent movements and reassure civilians rattled by the renewed wave of violence. – August 23, 2026