View Full Version : Upcountry coup reports
What province are you based in? What province do you visit on a regular basis?
The most immediate thought behind this is that I would like to figure out if we have any posters who can tell us what is currently happening 'Up North' or any other place where it may not be entirely 'plain sailing'. It seems to me that this is one area in which we can improve our coverage. Central posters have kept us well-informed, but I think that trouble is going to arise elsewhere. That said, We would just as soon receive reports of a positive nature. :)
Songkhla Province, but also keeping a bit of an eye out on developments in Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat Provinces
Scuba22
21-09-06, 09:00 PM
Great question - wuld especially be good to hear reaction from Thaksin-strongholds. I'll be up in Petchaboon this weekend - will keep my ears open:
From the BBC: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/talking_point/5363700.stm
Comments from a Brit missionary in Kanchanaburi:
We have lived through about ten different coups since we moved to Thailand in 1973. We are about 160 miles (260km) north-west of Bangkok in Kanchanaburi province.
Mr Thaksin had a lot of support around here, basically because of the handouts he gave the village people. They were giving out rice and free mobile phones to schoolchildren.
This was before the April elections, although it's been going on since then too. But people were beginning to see through it.
One of our neighbours said recently: "We're not as stupid as he thinks we are. He's not going to bribe me with his giveaways". But two years ago, this man was a big Thaksin supporter.
I've spoken to a few people here. Many are ambivalent - not that bothered.
One of our neighbours came round at midday and hadn't heard about it at all. He is normally someone who's very clued up about things, but there hasn't been much on the local media.
He was quite suprised - but not that surprised. A lot of people have been expecting this to happen.
I was also wondering what the reactions upcountry have been like, because coverage about areas outside Bangkok has literally been non-existent (apart from bits from the South and Chiang Mai).
Planning to go to Roi Et over the weekend. Hopefully I'll be able to report some sentiments from the heart of Isaan.... (So much for TRT strongholds. I imagine the population of At Samart must be crying their eyes out right now...;))
Wisarut
21-09-06, 11:29 PM
Well, thsoe from At Samart said
Too bad ..... :( ;)
Mr Thaksin had a lot of support around here, basically because of the handouts he gave the village people. They were giving out rice and free mobile phones to schoolchildren.:eek: Now if that isn't a perverted idea.... creating desires for modern consumer goods in schoolchildren, then letting the rural poor fall into the debt trap (I am not talking about the rice here)
Smiles say it mostly. Especially after such a gloomy weekend here. I went into a 711 because Carrefour decided to close early on coup day. The cashier asked if I knew the word 'Patiwat' and then said 'All Thai people are very happy today'. But of course that is far from true, even in Hat-Yai. Quite a few soldiers, policemen and business people here still think that Thaksin can do no wrong.
Scuba22
22-09-06, 07:12 AM
Thaksin's still got a support base in Hat Yai? Wow.
I just got reprimanded by my wife for asking what a "patiwat" was - she said, a "patiwat" is a violent coup, this is different, this is a "patiroop", a peaceful transition of power. She's a lawyer but her english isn't completely fluent, so if someone can explain this different better I'd appreciate it.
Cheers!
Scuba22
PhuketJimmy
22-09-06, 08:03 AM
They couldn't care less...No more police or Soldiers have been seen....Not one Tank in Tambon Slagpen... (a village)
A police car was sighted at the Bus Station but seems they were eating at the surin Majestic Hotel!~
Thaksin's still got a support base in Hat Yai? Wow.
I just got reprimanded by my wife for asking what a "patiwat" was - she said, a "patiwat" is a violent coup, this is different, this is a "patiroop", a peaceful transition of power. She's a lawyer but her english isn't completely fluent, so if someone can explain this different better I'd appreciate it.
Cheers!
Scuba22
Yes, he has. But probably getting smaller by the day as it goes out of fashion. Methinks those TRT jackets that used to be almost a fashion statement are going to be seen less and less.
I think your wife is right, but some papers used 'patiwat' - presumably because at that point they weren't sure how it might end.
I just got reprimanded by my wife for asking what a "patiwat" was - she said, a "patiwat" is a violent coup, this is different, this is a "patiroop", a peaceful transition of power.It's basically "revolt/revolution" vs. "reform":
patiwat (http://dict.longdo.com/?search=%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%8F%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8 %B1%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%B4&service=)
patirup (http://dict.longdo.com/?search=%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%8F%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8 %B9%E0%B8%9B&service=)
That said, the latter seems a tad euphemistic to me.....
And let's not forget the Tai word for "coup": ratthaprahan (http://dict.longdo.com/?sourceid=Mozilla-search&search=coup)
You might need it again! ;) :rolleyes: :D
^^^and lets not forget the word 'prachathippatai' also.. :)
Wisarut
22-09-06, 06:28 PM
Weeel, the is anti - CDR flyers aroudn Khon kaen
Noiw Army have arrest Mr. Phayap Shinnawatra (Thaksin's Brother) while steppign down ... now in custody at Fort Kawila :eek:
Wisarut
22-09-06, 06:31 PM
Arm,y already know that the Anti-CDR flyers are comgin from the Gang of 4 from TRT :p
1) Phootham Wetchayachai
2) Weera musikaphongse
3) Kiangkamon Laohaphairoj
4) Jatuporn Phromphan
Wisarut
23-09-06, 11:35 PM
Ai Weera and Ai Jatuporn as well as the right wing military are now instigatign the Grassroots to make Counter Coup
http://www.komchadluek.net/2006/09/23/a001_50171.php?news_id=50171
Coupter Coup iossibe even though Difficult ... If they get CIA Money .... :eek:
http://www.komchadluek.net/2006/09/mili/u001_50123.php?news_id=50123
BangkokPundit
24-09-06, 08:27 PM
I just got reprimanded by my wife for asking what a "patiwat" was - she said, a "patiwat" is a violent coup, this is different, this is a "patiroop", a peaceful transition of power. She's a lawyer but her english isn't completely fluent, so if someone can explain this different better I'd appreciate it.
Patiwat is more of a revolution whereas ratpraharn is the correct word for coup. A patiwat involves a change in the social structure/system and requires a dramatic change. Over the last 50 years most coup leaders have called their ratpraharn a patiwat because it sounds like there will be dramatic change when in reality very little actually changes as power just transfers from the elite to the elite. This is a ratpraharn (coup) not a patiwat (revolution). Some Thai academics debate whether there has ever been a patiwat as the 1932 coup really only saw a change in power from the royal elite to the military/civilian elite.
From memory around 20 pages of Supaluck Suvarnajata's Ph.D dissertation, "The Thai Military coup d'etat: Origins, Withdrawal/Civilian Control, and Perspectives" is devoted to this very subject.
To pacify people who think I am making this up, here is a Manager article (http://w3.manager.co.th/asp-bin/PrintNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000118875) (Thai only) on this very subject which seems to conclude it is ratpraharn, but it is very vague.
bangyuk
25-09-06, 09:42 PM
I have heard rumours from a mate in Sakhon Nakhon that villagers have ben told that the coup leaders will insist on the 20,000 Baht Thaksin loans being repaid by October!
I don't believe this for one moment. Anyone know what is going on?
Wisarut
26-09-06, 12:07 AM
Local Administration Organization of Kalasain siad
The have NEVER heard the CDRC Decree that Prohibit the Political Gatehring Yet
Most of the m satisfyign with CDRC
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120363
TU Student Denouncing CDRC through Civil Disobedience
http://w3.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120357
Army Hunting Down Ai Thepphanom (AKA Phanomporn Siriwiriyalux) - the Instigator agaisnt CDRC and the TRT henchman
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120189
Potjaman Flying from, Thailand to London
http://w3.manager.co.th/Around/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120140
9 TRT Northern MPs Defyign the Roder to Smoon to The 3rd Army
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120251
Pramuan Advicing CDRC to Seize Assets before being Spend for Coutner Coup
http://w3.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120259
Coup under the Shadow of Thaksin - Counter Coup very soon?
http://w3.manager.co.th/Daily/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120051
TRT Monkeys Jeetrign CDRC that tehy will get into troubel if they Seize assets fo Thaksin adn Cornies
http://w3.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120139
Anti-CDRC Flyers from TRT Monkeys
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120321
Anti-CDRC Movement by Maew's Northern Networks via VIllege Health Volunteers/COmmunities Health Voluntters with Slogan:
Who'll help helpo us if Thaksin is NO More?
This slogan is attached with 1000 Baht Banknotes a day as the funds to make demostration in BKK.
This has been report at Wat Nogn Ubon and Wat Nogn Hoy, Sansai district of Chaing Mai
Furthermiore, thsoe TRT networks are instigating Hilltribes on the landwoner issue as the way to lull them to face bullets in BKK
The Money spendign is also appetred at Phrae adn Uttaradit
The 1st Calvary Division also get report that thsoe People of Phichit get bribed with 1000 Baht Banknotes durign the meetign at Bugn Si Fai in Phichit to block the mvoement fo the calvarymen
SOme of community radio owners are negotiating with Lt. Gen Saphrang to reopen their networks despiite o the restriction ....
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120184
Political Reforms after Coups
http://w3.manager.co.th/Daily/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000119048
Wisarut
26-09-06, 09:58 AM
Even though CDRC has keep much of Populist programs of Ai Maew in place at the time being to QUELL down the discontent and rumours of Anti-CDRC coup, Big Bung should have STRONG courage to SOME of thse pet projects of thse populists to Prevent National Brankrupcy
http://www.bangkokbiznews.com/2006/09/26/v001_140582.php?news_id=140582
Scuba22
26-09-06, 10:01 AM
This is a ratpraharn (coup) not a patiwat (revolution).
Thanks for that. I kept hearing "patiwat" upcountry, though my wife keeps insisting that the people saying that just don't understand what they're saying - but then she's totally firm on calling it "patiroop", reserving "ratpraharn" for 1932 only...anyway...
Things looked pretty normal and quiet in Petchaboon, except for quite a few military checkpoints on the road, with the final one at Rangsit. The soliders were stopping vehicles with lots of people in them - pickup trucks, busses, etc. - I assume looking for anti-coup groups heading into Bangkok. We were easily waved through all of them.
We had a lively discussion with a few people over dinner. TRT had won the local seat by a small majority in the past elections. Our completely unscientific sample concluded that TRT support was divided between people who actually believed in Thaksin and his policies, and people who just wanted money. The consensus was that the first group (thaksin believers) were relatively small; the money contingent was far greater. But neither had much interest in fighting on this behalf - and certainly not against anything the King had approved.
It could have just been the group I was with, but they were quite resigned and cynical. "corrupt politician" was a redundancy to them, they said their best hope was to get some scraps of the corruption before the politicians were thrown out. Under Thaksin, the scraps were a bit bigger, but they all knew he was a corrupt thief so nobody was surprised at his fall. There certainly didn't seem to be the joy over the coup that you see in Bangkok - more like "here we go again"...
We did see a few soldiers taking pictures of each other - that was pretty funny.
Cheers,
Scuba22
Am I wrong in thinking these incidents are coup-related?: -
Four schools in Kamphaengphet torched
Kamphaengphet - Four schools in three districts of Kamphaengphet were set alight early Wednesday morning.
Police said the simultaneous attacks were made at about 3 am.
The four schools were Ban Bueng Looknok School in Pran Kratai district, Chantima School, Ban Chong Lom School in Lan Krabue district, and Ban Pathua School in Sai Ngarm district.
Ban Pathua ws not damaged because it rained throughout the night but police found trace of gasoline and attempt to set it alight.
Lt Gen Jiradej Khacharat, commande of the third army corps flew on a helicopter to inspect the scenes.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30014769
Wisarut
27-09-06, 10:43 AM
This is a clear sign Pro TRT are willign to create Civil War that put coutnry iun fconflagation so they can get US Armed Forces to reclaim theri seats of power ... :eek:
Wisarut
27-09-06, 12:43 PM
Now, thsoe PAD members from Sisaket said TRT vote canvassers are instigating the local people as the way to run Anti-Coup demostration
http://www.thaipost.net/index.asp?bk=xcite&post_date=27/Sep/2549&news_id=130664&cat_id=200600
Mr Chingchai Mongkhontham asking Local Administration Officers to Quite makign Political movement for sake of Peace
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120715
Third Army Commander comign to see the Burnt School at Phran Katai district of Kamphaengphet
http://203.154.97.19/citizen_report/breaking/read.php?lang=T&newsid=216099
Copycat attacks? Is there a suggestion here of "if the old guard can do this in the south, we can do it here too"?
Pro-Taksin elements have already demonstrated their volatility. This would seem to constitute an anti-coup reaction. Doubtess there will also be those who say that this may be designed to discredit such elements: -
Schools torched in Kampangphet in possible defiance of military coup
Four schools were torched in Kampangphet early Wednesday in a possible act of defiance against the military who seized power from Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a military spokesman said.
Police and the army were investigating the incident in Kamphaengphet province.
"The army has sent a team to investigate the incident and has not yet ruled out the possibility that this was an act of anger from people who lost power," said Col Banyong Sirasunthorn, a spokesman for the Third Army region.
Banyong said one of the schools was burned to the ground and the other three damaged. He speculated that the arsonists may have opposed the closing down of some 400 community radio stations, many of which had been used as mouthpieces for the fallen regime.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2006/09/27/headlines/headlines_30014774.php
Wisarut
27-09-06, 04:47 PM
A Clear sign that the Popolis system of Thaksin have effectively Brainwashed Isan People to become traitors AAGAQINST His Majesty's Troops :eek:
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120998
Third Army Shutting Down Communities Radio after discvcovering that each politicians of TRT is owning one community radio station
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121038
Strong Undercurrent against CDRC -
Buring Schools in Phran Katai, Kamphaengphet
Anti- CDRC flyers at Fort Kawila
Opneing Illegal Community Radio in Phrae
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120999
Wisarut
27-09-06, 05:12 PM
Deputy Commander of 2nd Army Waning all Communities Radio in Isan to be lin line wiht CDRC
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120356
Army Police Checkpoints to Prevent Isan mobs to go to BKK
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121116
Manda sheets and Amulets for Thrid Army ... Ready for helpign to Combat pro-Thaksin moibs in the North
http://www.thaipost.net/index.asp?bk=xcite&post_date=27/Sep/2549&news_id=130665&cat_id=200600
The way to put T^haksin Back to PM Office
1) COmmitting Counter Coups by Thaksin's Cronies -> Better destryoing Army - Police Base alogn with the wiping out thee 5th Column
2) Applying Internationa Pressure ... ... with the Whole Nation as the pricve to pay for this movement - Sending special Envoys and Removign thsoer Ambassadors who are willign to sell otu the nation for theri own selfish interests
3) Through the political means by instigating mobs headed by politicians and canvassers under Thaksin's Umbrella - better boycottign thsoe politicians along the layers who are goign help drafting the new constitution -> anotehr set of the 5th column such as Ai Visanu, Ai Bowornsak or so
http://w3.manager.co.th/Daily/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000120665
KAMPHAENG PHET
School fires may be linked to coup
CDR appeals for people not to point fingers as intelligence officials probe simultaneous blazes at 3 schools in province
Intelligence officials have moved in to Kamphaeng Phet province in an attempt to find the culprits behind yesterday's simultaneous arson attacks on three schools.
The attacks prompted speculation that they were carried out by people who had lost out in last week's coup.
The Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) spokesman Lt-General Palangoon Klaharn called on people not to panic or point fingers at anyone without evidence.
Anyone found guilty of burning down state property during martial law could be sentenced to death.
"Please wait for investigations by police, the Third Army Brigade and the Third Army Region," he said.
Kamphaeng Phet was seen as a stronghold of the Thaksin Shinawatra-led government, which was overthrown in last Tuesday's bloodless coup.
Colonel Banyong Sirasunthorn, a spokesman for the Third Army Region, yesterday said his unit had not yet ruled out the possibility that the arson was politically motivated. He said special taskforces had been stationed at key locations in Kamphaeng Phet, especially in Lan Krabue and Phran Kratai districts where the arson attacks ravaged three schools.
Senior military officers flew in by helicopter yesterday to inspect the damaged schools.
According to the Third Army Region, the arsonists had clearly plotted together and had attempted to set fire to three further schools in the same northern province but were foiled by rain.
It was rumoured the CDR Third Army Region was preparing to arrest several local politicians in Kamphaeng Phet.
Banyong said military authorities were preparing to summon the chairmen of tambon administrative organisations to be briefed on relevant information next week.
The general secretary of the Basic Education Commission, Pornnipha Limpaphayom, said no one was injured in the fires.
Somkiat Boonrod, director of Kamphaeng Phet Educational Service Area I, said he had instructed teachers at the three damaged schools to conduct classes in libraries and computer rooms in the meantime.
"We can't close schools at this moment because final exams are upcoming," he said. Somkiat led a meeting of teachers and school administrators in the area.
"They were saddened," he said. "They never thought that such attacks would take place here. For the moment they are not frightened. They believe the arsonists did not aim to kill," he said.
Somkiat said volunteers and police officers were being asked to help patrol schools at night. He said teachers would take turns watching out for their schools.
When asked who he thought had carried out the attacks, Somkiat said he felt those whose interests were affected by last week's coup could have done it.
His deputy, Sompong Mathupan, denied that a conflict among teachers or education officials had led to the attacks.
"The arson was well planned. It might have been intended to stir up trouble," Sompong said.
Meanwhile, teachers' groups will meet today to discuss the arson attacks in Kamphaeng Phet. Surin Intaraksa, the secretary-general of the Federation of Northern Teachers, said the groups would issue a joint statement to express moral support to those involved.
Meanwhile, security has been stepped up at government agencies and schools in nearby Phetchabun.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2006/09/28/national/national_30014826.php
Wisarut
28-09-06, 05:17 PM
Guarilla Warefare of Anti-CDR
http://w3.manager.co.th/Daily/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121368
Loei Governor Denying the ihnvolvement of Pro Thaksin's Mobs
http://w3.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121618
Three former Thai Rak Thai MPs for Kamphaeng Phet dismissed suggestions Thursday they were behind arson attacks on five local schools on Wednesday early morning.
They said no one would be stupid enough to risk execution by doing such acts at a time of martial law.
Waiphoj Arphornphat did not answer questions Thursday, but said arson attacks were punishable by death during martial law.
"No one dares to do such a thing," he said.
Sanan Sabaimueng said anyone who did it was very stupid and very bad - because the arson attacks affected schoolchildren.
Asked if he was aware of who was behind it, the former MP said he was dazed and never expected to see arson attacks in his province.
"It's like a copycat of what is happening in the South. Then local politicians are made scapegoats," he said.
Khanueng Thaiprasit said the arson attacks were unbelievable to him, but he would not speculate on whether national or local politicians ordered the schools to be set ablaze.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30014884
Wisarut
29-09-06, 12:35 PM
Round 2 for Anti CDR: Discrediting the Interim Government
http://www.thaiinsider.com/ShowNewsPost.php?Link=News/Insider-Akeyuth/2006-09-29/09-06.htm
Count Down for COnflagation - Thaksin System Return
http://www.manager.co.th/Daily/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121718
Revealing the Plan for Anti-CDR by Thaksin's Sycophants in Udornthani
http://www.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121998
Ruengwit Lik from Kamphaengphet Summonning to Third Army
http://www.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000121962
Dismantling TRT's finances key to staving off rural unrest
by North Watch, Bangkok
Letter to Editor - The Nation - Sept 29, 2006
Unless the Thai Rak Thai Party's financial structure is dismantled at the level of local administration, Thaksin's money might yet wreak havoc to the hitherto peaceful coup, if not to the civilian government to be installed by the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR). The military could be forced into acts of violence, making them unpopular and damaging the nation's progress towards democratic reform. Thaksin could come back to challenge a new election as a self-proclaimed protector of democracy.
As Amnesty International has attested, Thaksin's policies in the war on drugs were the antithesis of democracy. That this man was a fake was clear ever since he announced he would solve Bangkok's traffic problems in six months. If his intentions were pure, why did he need to subvert the democratic process in Thailand so resolutely when he commanded an absolute majority in Parliament?
While the CDR can be accused of being undemocratic, it can argue that it is doing what it does because it has to be done for the greater good. Did Thaksin's actions to subvert democracy have the same justification?
During his term as PM, Thaksin fostered an air of zero tolerance for anyone who thought differently, who thought new. His hard-hearted attitude spawned events like the Krue Se Mosque and Tak Bai atrocities. Unfortunately, the ugly right-wing elements in Thai politics who want nothing but absolute control are still waiting in the wings, ready to cow the population.
Unless the coup leaders show the same level of skill in dismantling the Thai Rak Thai Party, particularly its financial structure, as they did in mounting the coup, Thailand could still end up a failed state. The CDR must tread a very fine line.
Baton Rouge
29-09-06, 12:59 PM
It's interesting to note that Thailand's struggles (from 1932 on) almost almost seem to stem from groups of disaffected - already quite-priviledged individuals - who believe that they are not getting a big enough slice of the cake for the talents they believe they possess. The entity known as Thai Ruk Thai is a classic example. It is arguably bigger and more dangeorous than the CPT ever was, even before you begin to buy into Khun Wisaruth's conspiracy theories.
It is indeed a truly strange world in which I have come to fear TRT more the military. That said, I suppose we should remember that its real fanatics (rather than just the token card-carrying sheep) are probably partially composed of some of the worst elements of the military and police anyway.
Small wonder that so many people do welcome the coup, even if they have some reservations.
Is this too gloomy an assessment?
Wisarut
29-09-06, 01:28 PM
Yep ... Singapore and USA are goign Slice Thailand through the agent lik thsoe TRT ... :)
Wisarut
30-09-06, 01:29 AM
Somkait Phong Phaiboon Warning abotu 3 Unsolved problem whcih potentially allow the Return of Thaksin's Police State
1) The Conflicts on The Provision Constitution
2) Closed Political Reform by the same old Technocrat
3) The Cronyism and spoil system in Police Dept.
http://www.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000122190
Teh Coup may brign Peace to the SOuth since Thaksin and Police State Sydsmte are the main source of problems
http://www.manager.co.th/Around/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000122131
Wisarut
02-10-06, 01:29 AM
Burning down 3 Scholls in Buriram as the signal for Anti CDR
http://www.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000122532
This report yesterday. The fire/fires seem/s to have occurred on Saturday. In fact, I decided not to post it earlier because of the doubts raised at the end of the article. I suppose this MIGHT be part of an official policy to downplay such incidents. In which case, are there more happening than are reported in national newspapers?
Fire destroys another school in Northeast
Police have begun an investigation into a fire that destroyed a primary school near the Cambodian border in Buri Ram province on Saturday.
Police Region 3 commander Lt-General Sathaporn Laowthong said yesterday that while it looked like an electrical short-circuit had caused the fire he had not ruled out arson.
The fire came less than a week after arson attacks on a score of schools in Kamphaeng Phet in an apparent gesture of defiance by supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in the recent military coup.
No one was injured in Saturday's fire at the two-storey Baan Kok Tabaeng school in Non Din Daeng district, police said.
Sathaporn ordered increased security measures for schools and government offices in the region.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2006/10/02/national/national_30015143.php
Scuba22
02-10-06, 09:41 AM
Burning down schools seems a particularly unconstructive way to protest the coup or support Thaksin. Wouldn't it just make local parents angry at the perpetrators? I certainly wouldn't be too happy if some idiot burned my kid's school.
Scuba22
Certainly agree with those sentiments. All the more reason to suspect such attacks are instigated at the behest of national & provincial politicians who send their kids to schools of a more robust & exclusive nature. I'm also not making any bets as to the true motive of these attacks.
I suppose we should also reflect on the fact that most politicians appear to have a pretty limited grip on constructive logic anyway. Their political strategy still appears to owe more to 'slash & burn' than careful husbandry. Their attitude might well be "Why worry about disgruntled parents! We can always fob them off with a few baht to forget!".
Also featured frontpage: -
http://isaanair.com/
Scuba22
02-10-06, 02:34 PM
I'm also not making any bets as to the true motive of these attacks.
Apart from the horrendous ethical implications of denying poor kids an education, I just wonder about the efficacy... I mean, how can burning down schools possibly help the people who do the burning? What motive could possibly produce this? I can understand Thaksin's motives (power, greed, ego) and the coup motives (ummm...power, greed, ego), or even southern terrorists, but motives of school-burners are beyond me.
It seems to coincidental that simultaneous spontaneous passion and anger would be directed to schools. I'm also more and more reluctant to dismiss things I can't make sense of as the crazy Thais being crazy - parhaps I've been lured into conspiracy-land, but there often seems to be method behind seeming madness.
Scuba22
It looks like someone's head IS expected some time soon over the Kamphaeng Phet School Arson attacks: -
Heat on rural police chief
The Kamphaeng Phet police chief has been warned that failure to put arsonists in the province behind bars will cost him his job.
The provincial boss was yesterday given an ultimatum - either arrest those behind arson attacks on local schools or be transferred.
Police spokesman Ajiravid Subarnbhesaj said Chainarong Wongsunthorn was subject to transfer unless the case was closed swiftly. He said police had taken over investigation of the fires from the Justice Ministry's Central Institute of Forensic Science following the hand-over of power from military leaders to a civilian PM.
Senior investigators were in the province yesterday to consolidate police efforts. A two-hour meeting produced no conclusions.
Military and police intelligence sources suggested a local kamnan could be behind the blazes. The suspect, a resident of neighbouring Phichit province, allegedly had ties with local politicians and some senior officers of Police Region 6 - which oversees both provinces.
jpatokal
03-10-06, 10:19 AM
The Som Tams are revolting!
Really? I thought they looked kind of tasty. :p
But you're right JPatakol! Some lovin' care went into that site! As long as they leave the Black Crab out, those Somtams look great!
Note the comment at the bottom that the hoax call originated from an army camp: -
Soldiers deployed to protect banks in Phitsanulok following bomb hoax
Phitsanulok - Soldiers were deployed to protect commercial bank branches in Phitsanulok's downtown after emergency police received a call that a bomb had been planted in a bank.
The bomb threat was made to the 191 police of Phitsanulok's Muang district at 8:15 and Pol Col Chalerm Suwanratana-osoth, commander of Muang district police station, deployed officers to search all banks in the provincial seat but did not find any bomb.
The Third Army Area also deployed soldiers to protect the branches of Krung Thai Bank, Military Bank, Kasikorn Bank and Bangkok Bank immediately.
The Muang district police chief said the call was traced and found that it was made from within a military camp.
The Nation
jpatokal
04-10-06, 10:54 AM
But you're right JPatakol! Some lovin' care went into that site! As long as they leave the Black Crab out, those Somtams look great!
Alas, fermented black crab is what distinguishes the Isaan version from som tam Thai. But "mai aow puu" was still one of the first Thai phrases I learned, ranking only slightly below "hong naam yuu thii nai na khrap" in importance. :cool:
A former Thai Rak Thai Party MP for Nakhon Ratchasima will be interviewed by police over the latest arson attack on None Rang School on Saturday night.
However, Provincial Police Bureau 3 commander Lt-General Sathaphorn Laothong said there was no connection between the arson attack and area MPs or local politicians.
Prachathippatai Khamsingnok was an MP for Chum Phuang district where the school is located.
Prachathippatai was also secretary to former interior minister Kongsak Vantana in the last cabinet under the ousted Thaksin Shinawatra government.
Sathaphorn said police would soon contact both former and incumbent politicians at all levels - provicial MPs, senators and members of local administrative bodies - for interviews.
The officer said yesterday that police would also summon for questioning a number of teenagers who were convicted of stealing wild pigs raised by the school.
He quoted witnesses as saying that four young men on two motorcycles stopped at the school at 10pm last Saturday night, 30 minutes before the fire broke out.
A large benzine stain and pieces of tyre were found along with bags of snack foods in the place where the four men had stopped their motorcycles.
All 21 teachers at the school and another 10 witnesses have been interviewed.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2006/11/06/headlines/headlines_30018200.php
A Kamnan is a commune (tambon) headman: -
Kamnan arrested for alleged involvement in arson attacks on five schools
Police have arrested an influential Kamnan of Kampaengphet for allegedly involving in arson attacks at five schools in the province in September.
Police detained Thien Rodkhiew, 46, a Kamnan of Khao Kirit precinct, at provincial police headquarter in the province. Thien is an influential Kamnan in the province and is believed to have close contact with former government of Thaksin.
Earlier his brother, Thong, 44, was arrested for involving in the arson attacks five schools in Kampangphet's Larnkrabue and Sai-ngam districts were burnt down on September 27.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30018410
Secret cells discovered in the North (http://nationmultimedia.com/2006/11/05/headlines/headlines_30018096.php) - The Nation, 05 November 2006
Word has it that deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra is planning a return to Thailand in December
The military was yesterday watching closely emerging "undercurrents" in 17 provinces in the North as rumours spread that deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was trying to sneak back to Thailand. Meanwhile, a source at the Thai Rak Thai Party said Thaksin would return to Thailand in early December ahead of announcing its dissolution at the end of that month. Third Region Army Commander Lt-General Jiradej Kotcharat yesterday admitted "undercurrent" cells had been detected in 17 provinces. They aim to destabilise the Council for National Security (CNS), he said, adding that he had ordered military personnel in these areas to watch the movements of these cells and keep tabs on emerging groups. "Without wind, waves do not happen," he explained. "It is normal. The emergence of opposition groups is understandable as some people lost out from the coup, but I must remind you this situation is not good for the nation, which needs to be united."
CNS chairman General Sonthi Boonyaratglin said the situation was under control. "There's nothing to be worried about in general. I'm sure our officials will handle the matter," he said. "I sat and spoke with Chiang Mai people today, and they said the coup had not affected their lives significantly. Chiang Mai people naturally understand the situation," he replied when asked if he was worried about an anti-coup groundswell in the North. Sonthi confirmed that Thaksin was in China and did not pro-pose to return. Thai Rak Thai spokesman Sita Divari confirmed this. "He has no plans to return to Thailand," Sita said yesterday afternoon, several hours before another source said differently. According to that party source, Thaksin had spoken with Thai Rak Thai officials and decided to return to Thailand in early December, when he would announce the dissolution of the party at the end of the month. "The decision was made based on the latest analysis of the political situation. By the end of this year the Constitution Tribunal may have ruled on the Thai Rak Thai court case involving the hiring of small parties for the April 2 election. Before the ruling, the CNS is likely to investigate a number of corruption cases related to the party. That is why it was decided Thaksin should return to clarify matters to members and supporters. "Based on our recent analysis, there are still many people who strongly disagree with the party being dissolved," the source said, adding that the ban on political activity would be lifted by December.
Jiradej explained that "undercurrent" groups in the North were paid to oppose the CNS. One has distributed propaganda attacking the CNS, signed by a deputy police chief, he said. "We found that he was a policeman working closely with residents in his area. He had some 2,000 supporters and planned to run in the next election." He said the policeman's opponents had used the coup to attack him in a game to gain votes. "It is the same as those who gathered at the international horticultural exposition the other day," the commander explained. At the Lanna Sports Centre in Chiang Mai yesterday Sonthi spent several hours on the golf course with senior military officers and CNS members. The only senior member who was not there was police chief General Kowit Wattana. There are those who would like to see him removed from his job because of his "close relationship" with deposed prime minister Thaksin.
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