5 Thai soldiers killed in insurgency-hit south

Five Thai soldiers were killed in a coordinated attack on a security checkpoint in the country’s insurgency-hit south, marking one of the deadliest incidents in recent years, the army said.

The assault took place on Wednesday evening in Narathiwat province, one of three Muslim-majority southern provinces long affected by a separatist insurgency. Local officials said at least six civilians were also injured in the attack.

According to an army statement, members of Task Force Ranger Regiment 45 came under heavy fire as assailants opened gunfire and hurled pipe bombs at the Bukeh Sami checkpoint while the troops were on duty protecting civilians.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, and authorities have not reported any arrests.

Thailand’s southernmost region has been gripped by a low-intensity conflict since 2004, with rebel groups seeking greater autonomy. The prolonged violence has claimed more than 7,000 lives, with most attacks targeting security personnel.

The army paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, stating that their “service and sacrifice will be remembered and honoured with the highest respect.