WorldAsia-OceaniaThailand thwarts terrorist attack in Phuket

Thailand thwarts terrorist attack in Phuket

Type of event:
Counter-terrorism, Counter-IED

Victims

Wounded

Date

June 29, 2025

What happened

Thai security forces prevented a terrorist attack on Phuket after discovering and defusing four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and arresting three suspects. CCTV footage and a rapid investigation led authorities to locate four IEDs: one on a motorcycle near Phuket International Airport and three near Cape Promthep and Patong. All were defused without causing any injuries. Investigators identified a vehicle seen in the vicinity of the bomb sites and arrested two men from Pattani province, known for its separatist activities. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed explosive materials, remote detonators, mobile phones, and documents written in Arabic and Malay. During the suspects’ interrogation, they reportedly admitted to acting on instructions from a handler based in southern Thailand. A third suspect from Narathiwat province was apprehended the following day. Electrical cables and batteries were found in his vehicle. During a larger search operation, authorities discovered eight additional IEDs buried near a highway leading to Phuket. All of the units were safely dismantled. In light of recent developments, Thailand’s Ministry of Transport has reinforced security measures at airports, ports, and major city entrances. It has included the deployment of military personnel to join large-scale patrols in the region. Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom have all updated their travel advisories, citing an ‘ongoing terrorist threat’ in the region.

Where it happened

Main sources