No. 005/2553
21 June 2010 (sic)
Statement
Condemning the Act of Violence at Meung Pattani District Police Station
Condemning the Act of Violence at Meung Pattani District Police Station
From the two explosions which occurred this morning in the front yard of Meung Pattani DPS, where 2 unknown assailants threw a grenade at police officers who were in formation for saluting the national flag, causing 1 death and over 40 injuries, in of whom was a female police officer i.e. Pol.Maj. Kumanthana Benjamana, Detective for Civil Affairs, Meung Pattani Provincial Police, followed by another attack by car bombing at approximately 1030 hours at a parking lot only approximately 20 meters away from Meung Pattani DPS, resulting in 5 injuries, all of whom were innocent civilian commuters who were passing by the area. The mentioned incidents occurred despite the 4th Region Army's frontline strict measures in inspecting all suspected vehicles by issuing stickers for all vehicles used in the Southern Border Provinces.
The mentioned events were intentional displays of cruelty and the desire to undermine the credibility of police officers whose duties were to protect the lives and properties of the people, and to stir up rage and create paranoia between state officials and the people.
The Working Group on Justice for Peace wishes to presents its deep condolences to the families of those who died or were injured, to the state officials, ordinary citizens, as well as the Border Patrol Police Operations Headquarters, and condemns the wrongdoers and those who are behind the act of violence towards the innocent.
The Working Group calls for the Royal Thai Government, particularly the 4th Region Internal Security Operations Command, and all sectors, on the following demands:
1. Investigation of the incidents should be conducted fairly. All witnesses are asked to cooperate in providing officials with information in order to bring the wrong-doers to the justice system under an efficient system of witness protection.
2. The government must seriously implement its policy of solving the problems by putting "politics before the military" through participation of the people. State officials must display sincerity in using peaceful approach and the rule of law in solving problems. Spaces should be given for dialogue with people from all sectors to reflect the problems of the people and allow the people to be involved in solving their own problems.
3. The 4th Region Internal Security Operations Command must clarify to the people on how an explosive-laden car was able to escape detection by officials, despite strict security measures.
4. People in the Southern Border Provinces should make a stand point in rejecting the use of violence from all sides and call for all sides to put an end to any act that is a violation of life and property of the innocent, whether they are state officials or ordinary citizens.
The Working Group on Justice for Peace wishes to extend its emotional support to all officials who are doing their duty wth endurance, perseverance, and a firm adherence to the rule of law and peaceful approaches, with the belief that justice can bring back the trust and confidence from the people, and that peace cannot be achieved without genuine trust and participation of the people.
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