PRESS RELEASE:
The National Security Council (NSC) has indicated that security agencies are currently conducting investigations into a group of activists advocating for a public referendum to establish an independent Muslim “Patani State” in the Thai South.
NSC Secretary-General Gen Supoj Malaniyom said the Internal Security Operation Command (ISOC) Region 4 Forward Office and Provincial Police Region 9 are closely monitoring the activities of the group, including their social media presence.
According to Gen Supoj, the primary focus of the investigation is to determine whether the group is connected to any separatist movements, which would be a violation of the Constitution and other relevant laws. He explained that the inquiry is ongoing and led by ISOC, adding that while it may take some time to conclude, appropriate action will be taken based on the available evidence.
Responding to questions regarding the potential involvement of political parties in the group’s activities, Gen Supoj confirmed that authorities are looking into the matter and will respond accordingly.
Concerning the group’s demand for a public referendum on the establishment of an independent Muslim state, Gen Supoj firmly stated that such calls are not permitted under the Constitution. Lt Gen Santi Sakultanak, commander of the 4th Army, echoed Gen Supoj’s sentiments by denouncing the proposal for a referendum as unconstitutional, noting that it poses a threat to Thailand’s territorial integrity and national security.
