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THE Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has stepped up security along the Malaysia-Thailand border following a bomb explosion in Pekan Sungai Golok, southern Thailand, on March 8.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain announced that PDRM is closely monitoring developments in Narathiwat province, which borders Malaysia, and has enforced strict security measures in response to the attack. He emphasized that these measures would remain in place until the situation is considered safe.
Razarudin confirmed that personnel from the General Operations Force (GOF), stationed at the border, have been ordered to enhance their readiness and reinforce security at GOF posts along Sungai Golok.
Additional measures include intensified patrols at high-risk areas and illegal crossing points.
"In addition, the Strike Force Company and Battalion Intelligence teams have been directed to increase their patrols, particularly around 'hot spots' and illegal crossing points along Sungai Golok," Razarudin told Bernama today.
He reassured the public that Malaysian police are maintaining a 24-hour security presence at police posts to ensure added safety.
The explosion in Sungai Golok occurred at around 6:25 p.m. local time, shortly after Iftar (the breaking of fast) during Ramadan.
While details regarding the casualties remain unclear, Thai authorities reported a bomb blast at a security checkpoint outside the Sungai Golok District Office, followed by gunfire from assailants.
Initial reports suggest that at least two Thai security personnel were killed, and eight others were injured.
"The bomb explosion took place at a security post near the Sungai Golok stadium, and as of now, the number of victims remains unconfirmed," Razarudin said.
Malaysian authorities have advised citizens to postpone any travel plans to southern Thailand in light of the explosion.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat confirmed that no Malaysians were involved in the attack, providing reassurance to the public. However, Thai police revealed that the assailants fired several rounds before throwing five hand grenades at the checkpoint.
Since the start of Ramadan, security has been significantly heightened in Sungai Golok due to concerns about the increased risk of attacks in the border region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. – March 9, 2025
