Narucha, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, ordered the highest level of security in the three southern border provinces after multiple disturbances, urging residents not to leave the area.
At 07:40 on 23 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Narucha Kosasivilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, gave an interview at Military Airport 2, Wing 6, Don Mueang, Bangkok, regarding the multiple incidents in the three southern border provinces last night. He said they were aware of the situation since 22 Aug and promptly intensified security measures and forces in the area, especially in Yala province, where the highest readiness level was ordered along with key personnel in subdistrict protection units.
Furthermore, he emphasized maximum caution in the area, particularly warning residents not to leave their homes since last night. All measures focus on issuing alerts, monitoring, enhancing security, and maintaining their strongholds. Additionally, the Department of Provincial Administration and related units are on the ground tracking terrorists, while others are executing the Southern Border Provinces Development Plan (SBPDP) according to established protocols.
When asked if a curfew or restriction on leaving the area would be imposed if suspects are not apprehended, Narucha said this falls under the SBPDP plan, especially managed by the military region responsible for the situation. Asked about initial reports on casualties, he said official reports are awaited but noted the incidents across the three provinces are quite serious.
Regarding whether the simultaneous attacks were symbolic or had a particular message, Narucha responded, "Our intelligence has been receiving periodic updates, which we have communicated to operational units. The incidents last night were well-prepared and widespread across the area. All locations remain under constant surveillance. We have ordered continuous maximum-level security measures." .