A scare occurred yesterday afternoon in Hat Yai, Songkhla, when a suspicious brown suitcase abandoned outside the mayor's residence led to a four-hour road closure. This incident comes amid heightened tensions in the southern border provinces, following recent violent events, including a car bomb in Pattani.

 

Promptly responding to the threat, Sakorn Thongmuni, a senior police officer, orchestrated the sealing off of Nipat Songkhro 5 Road. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit swiftly intervened, employing a high-pressure water cannon to disable the bag after cutting off mobile and radio signals to eliminate detonation risks.

 

Surprisingly, the owner returned to the scene soon after the operation. He explained the suitcase was mistakenly left after a brief stop and was only filled with clothes and documents. Apologetic, he acknowledged the unnecessary alarm his oversight had caused to Hat Yai's community.

 

Security remains tight, with authorities on high alert across several key areas, determined to ensure the safety of the public amidst ongoing regional tensions.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-04

 

 

Better safe than sorry !