An escalation in the conflict between armed militia and security forces in Pattani province yesterday saw two fatalities and one arrest. In a coordinated operation, government forces succeeded in fatally shooting an armed militant and detaining a woman. The unfortunate loss of a local official, who was involved in peaceful negotiations, also transpired amidst the crossfire. The incident took place in the Khok Pho district.
The event occurred as a government force made up of 50 officers moved in on a residence in Khuan Lamae, a village in the Na Ket sub-district, at around 2am yesterday. Acting upon information that suspected militants involved in the recent death of a local police officer were holed up in this dwelling, the force took tactical action.
A bloody battle incident followed as gunshots were hailed from the house, dreadfully…
