Security patrols and strict checks have been increased at Suvarnabhumi airport following the deadly coordinated bombings and arson attacks in the South.
Tourist police, soldiers from the 21st Artillery Regiment in both plainclothes and uniforms, and sniffer dogs have been deployed at the international airport in Samut Prakan province since Friday night to join airport security officers in patrolling the airport and thoroughly checking passengers’ luggage and belongings.
The tightened security measures followed a string of 13 bomb blasts and four arson attacks that rocked the South and the resort city of Hua Hin from Thursday to Friday. Four people were killed and 35 others injured in the blasts.
Currently, security measures at the airport remain at level three. Patrols had been increased at inbound and outbound passenger terminals since bomb blasts in Bangkok last year.
Pol Col Nitithorn Jintakanon, deputy commander of the Tourist Police Division, said on Saturday that Pol Maj Gen Surachet Hakphan, commander of the division, had ordered tourist police to act swiftly in dealing with possible untoward incidents and helping passengers. They were also instructed to coordinate with other security units manning at the airport to ensure greater safety for passengers.
However, the operation must not cause panic among passengers, said Pol Col Nitihorn, citing the tourist commander’s order.
He said security checkpoints had also been set up on main roads and areas vulnerable to violent attacks.
Combined teams of police, soldiers and local officials were sent to man the checkpoints. Rescue volunteers in the areas were also coordinated to help authorities guard important government venues, department stores and entertainment venues.