Why Australia issued a Thailand travel warning; What tourists need to know about the bomb scare in Phuket

The Australian government released an updated travel warning for Thailand and called on citizens to be highly careful after the exploration of explosive devices in large tourist centers, including Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga.

Alert, published by the Smartraveller Advisory Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, follows a bomb discovery that advises them to arrive long before the flights to travelers near Phuket International Airport.

“Popular tourism areas may be the target of terrorist attacks all over Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket,” he said.

Explosives were found, arrests made in Southern Thailand

The Thai officials reported that he discovered and neutralized multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga at the beginning of this week. According to the Thai officials, two men in their 20s were arrested for the sewing of devices. The suspects were allegedly linked to a long -standing separatist movement in the far south of Thailand.

Although no loss or damage has been reported, Thai military sources said that devices were designed to cause panic instead of damaging and disrupt tourism. Judicial analysis continues.
However, Sophon Suwannarat, the governor of Phuket, underestimated the threat and said that the first inspections did not confirm the presence of functional explosives.
“Based on the existing evidence, none of the suspected elements so far is explosive or destructive,” he said.

What suggested the Thai travel warning?

Thailand continues to be the best travel place for Australians, especially for the natural coastline, nightlife and cuisine, Phuket. In the light of recent developments,

The Australian government proposes increasing wakefulness, especially in crowded public spaces, airports and nightlife areas.

Travelers are also recommended to the following:

• Avoid political demonstrations
• Stay awake in bars and clubs
• Take precautions against food and beverage increases

The southern provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, which limits the Malaysian border, are under the advisory of “Don’t Travel” due to a long -lasting rebellion in the region. These areas have seen routine attacks over the years, but events in touristic centers such as Phuket are rare.

Who’s behind the explosives?

The connection with Barisan Revoli Nasional (BRN), a group behind the uprising in the deep south of Thailand, is under investigation. Analysts are divided whether the group has extended its operations beyond their usual castles.

Dr. Greg Raymond said BRN typically does not target Northern tourist regions such as Phuket.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that the security situation in Thailand may be unpredictable with great protests and occasionally unrest in Bangkok and other cities.