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January 19, 2011: Jihadi attack on army outpost in southern Thailand

On January 19, 2011 40 jihadis armed with military weapons assaulted an army outpost in southern Thailand killing four soldiers and wounding six.

NARATHIWAT, THAILAND – You’d think that those fighting terrorism could sit down to enjoy a meal: you’d be wrong.

Who doesn’t like a nicely prepared meal? Whether it is something you make yourself or order in a restaurant, the mere act of tucking into food – breakfast, lunch, dinner, whatever – is one of life’s true pleasures.

And doing so after putting in a long day’s work is even more rewarding. Once the tasks are done we deserve a rest and the chance to nourish ourselves without interruption – or terrorism.

Not my #1 choice but whatever works for you! (Photo: Raul Lieberwirth on flickr, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

On this day in 2011

At least 40 men armed with military weapons assaulted an army outpost in southern Thailand well after dark and during the camp’s evening meal. During the firefight at least four soldiers were killed –including an army company commander – and six others were wounded.

It had received little attention internationally [but] it is not an exaggeration to say this is the most deadly conflict in South East Asia.

Rungrawee Chalermsripinyorat, an independent analyst based in Australia

The attack occurred just two days after the Thai government extended its emergency decree in the three southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala, and only hours after the Deputy Prime Minister and Army chief had returned to Bangkok from a day-long visit in Pattani. Jihadi violence has been going on in the region for decades (for more details see my 2017 book The Lesser Jihads).

Still, can’t we all agree not to attack during dinner?

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By Phil Gurski

Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. Phil is a 32-year veteran of CSE and CSIS and the author of six books on terrorism.

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