Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

Security authorities have imposed a nightly curfew across Narathiwat province and invoked powers under the Martial Law Act following a series of bomb and arson attacks that heightened security concerns in the southern border region. The measures, effective immediately from 11 January 2026, restrict movement between 21:00 and 05:00 and tighten controls at border crossings with Malaysia, directly affecting residents, travellers, and cross-border trade.

The announcement was issued by the Narathiwat Task Force under Order No. 29/2569, signed by Major General Yodawut Phuengphak, commander of the unit. It authorises the use of military, police, and civilian agencies to maintain public order and ensure the safety of lives and property across all districts of the province.

The move follows renewed violence in Narathiwat, including bombings and unrest in several areas and comes after attacks on multiple PTT petrol stations in the three southern border provinces. These incidents prompted the Fourth Army Region to raise security to the highest level and place all units on full readiness to respond to any situation.

Martial law powers are being exercised under Sections 6, 8, 9, and 11 of the Martial Law Act B.E. 2457 (1914), alongside Fourth Army Region Order No. 790/2568, which grants authority to designated military officers. Measures include strict inspections of all vehicles, people, and goods entering and leaving the Thai–Malaysian border areas in Narathiwat, affecting both Thai nationals and foreign citizens.

According to the Fourth Army Region’s Public Relations Centre, security forces have sealed off affected areas to conduct detailed investigations, gather evidence, and identify those responsible for the petrol station attacks. Lieutenant General Norrathip Phoyanok, Commander of the Fourth Army Region and Director of Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, ordered emergency meetings with relevant agencies to accelerate the manhunt and pursue legal action against the perpetrators.

Authorities have urged the public not to panic and to rely only on official information. Residents have been asked to cooperate with security operations, avoid affected areas where possible, and report suspicious individuals or objects via the ISOC Region 4 hotline at 1341 or local task force units, available 24 hours a day.

SiamRath reported that the curfew and enhanced security measures will remain in force until further notice. Officials warned that anyone found supporting offenders, including providing shelter, transport, or supplies, could face prosecution under Section 189 of the Criminal Code, carrying penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both.

Key Takeaways

• A 21:00–05:00 curfew is now in effect across Narathiwat under martial law powers from 11 January 2026.

• Security has been heightened following bomb and arson attacks on PTT petrol stations.

• Authorities warn that aiding suspects is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment or fines.

Original story

Bomb-arson-attacks-hit-11-fuel-stations-in-southern-Thailand

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siamnews 2026-01-11

 

 

UPDATE

Narathiwat Curfew Lifted as Security Situation Improves

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek

The Narathiwat Special Task Force has announced the lifting of the curfew and related security restrictions in Narathiwat province after assessing that the current security situation is under control. The decision takes effect from 12 January and is intended to ease daily hardship for residents while supporting economic activity and tourism in the province.

According to the task force, a recent evaluation of the security situation found that overall conditions have steadily improved and are now at a manageable level. This assessment led to the decision to revoke previously imposed measures that restricted movement and activity in the area. Authorities said the immediate impact would be greater freedom of movement for residents and businesses.

The curfew had been introduced as part of heightened security measures amid concerns over stability in the province. These measures included restrictions at border crossing points, a ban on leaving residences during designated hours, and the use of powers under the Martial Law Act of 1914. The measures were aimed at maintaining order and ensuring public safety during a period of heightened vigilance.

Officials stated that the lifting of the curfew and associated controls reflects confidence in the ability of security agencies to manage the situation without extraordinary restrictions. The task force emphasised that the overall trend in Narathiwat has been positive, allowing authorities to reduce the impact of security measures on everyday life. The move is expected to help restore normal routines for residents and encourage commercial and tourism-related activities.

The announcement highlighted that easing the restrictions would help reduce disruption to daily life and improve quality of life for the local population. It also aims to create a more favourable environment for economic recovery and tourism, which have been affected by the previous controls. Local businesses and residents are likely to benefit from the return to more normal operating conditions.

Despite the lifting of the curfew, the Narathiwat Special Task Force said it would continue to closely monitor and assess the situation. Security forces will remain active in maintaining safety and order across the province. Authorities stressed their ongoing commitment to protecting residents and ensuring long-term peace and stability in the area.

Komchadluek reported that officials said continued assessments will guide any future adjustments to security measures if conditions change. The task force reiterated that public safety remains the priority while working to support sustainable improvements in living conditions. Residents have been urged to remain cooperative as authorities continue their monitoring efforts.

Key Takeaways

• The Narathiwat Special Task Force has lifted the curfew and related measures, after judging the situation to be under control.

• Restrictions revoked include movement bans, border controls, and the use of powers under the 1914 Martial Law Act.

• Authorities will continue close monitoring to maintain security and public safety in the province.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Komchadluek 2026-01-12