Saboteurs caused disturbances at several locations in Bannang Sata District, Yala Province by burning tires, placing caltrops, damaging CCTV cameras, and setting fire to construction machinery, urging the public to act as eyes and ears.
At approximately 02:30 on 20 Sep 2026 GMT+7, unknown assailants launched coordinated attacks at multiple points along National Highway 410 near Ban Phong Yamu, Village No. 3 (a sub-village called Ban Ngo Kapo), Bannang Sata Subdistrict, Bannang Sata District, Yala Province, and surrounding areas, resulting in damage to government and private sector property.
Officials investigating found the perpetrators spread out over several sites, including burning two vehicle tires on Highway 410, placing suspicious objects in the road center, scattering caltrops, damaging two CCTV cameras, and arson targeting construction machinery of Shinwara Yala Construction Co., Ltd., contracted for road works. The affected machinery included an excavator and two road rollers, totaling three vehicles. Additionally, a private car belonging to locals returning from buying langsat fruit in Betong District was also burned and damaged.
This morning, Mr. Kongsakul Chantrach, Governor of Yala Province, accompanied by local administrative officials, military personnel, and police, promptly inspected the sites and held an urgent meeting with related agencies to assess the situation and implement immediate security measures.
Governor Kongsakul disclosed the incident occurred after midnight (just before 3 a.m.), with attackers targeting vehicles and machinery involved in the four-lane road construction project from Bannang Sata to Betong. This government project aims to develop infrastructure to ease travel and enhance safety for local residents, but it was deliberately sabotaged by malicious actors.
“Previously, at night, the three agencies—local administration, police, and military—conducted continuous patrols and checkpoints to maintain order. However, following this incident, the province convened with Bannang Sata Police Station and district officials to strengthen and tighten security measures for workers and machinery,” said Governor Kongsakul.
Initial measures discussed include consolidating all construction machinery and vehicles at secure locations, such as the subdistrict administrative organization area or mosque vicinity. The contracting company will also hire private security personnel for close protection. Additionally, coordination will increase for patrols securing the entire construction route strictly.
The Yala Governor emphasized the critical role of community participation, stating that without local cooperation, solving these issues becomes much harder. He urged residents to stay vigilant and involved, noting that although the damaged assets may not be personal property, the project benefits and facilitates local communities. Everyone should help monitor and support government efforts to jointly build lasting peace and security in the area.