Bin Laden’s death should not impact conflict in Thai South

BANGKOK, May 3 (TNA) - In the wake of the death of Al-Qaeda head Osama bin Laden, Thawil Pliensri, secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC), said it should not impact the situation in Thailand's three southernmost provinces, as intelligence authorities found no links between insurgents there and Al-Qaeda or Jemaah Islamiya terrorist groups.

Thawil noted however, that authorities must not be neglectful, and urged them to cooperate with intelligence agencies of friendly nations, especially Pakistan.

The NSC Secretary-General added security agencies must protect possible targeted locations, including areas of US interest and those of US allies. He insisted the Royal Thai Police Office was already preparing appropriate security measures.

Regarding possible unrest during the next general election, Thawil said the Royal Thai Police Office and the Election Commission were working together on security measures. He admitted that there were reports of potential violent attacks but there would be no use of explosives.

Above all, Thawil reiterated, all concerned parties will have to prepare their best preventive measures to ensure order and stability. (TNA)