A crossing on Thailand - Malaysia border (Photo: placesandfoods.com) Bangkok (VNA) – Thailand’s authorities announced on June 8 that six auxiliary crossings on its border with Malaysia have been closed to prevent militants of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) from entering the country.
The closure of the border crossings along the Kolok river in Narathiwat province began on June 6 and the 30th Narathiwat Special Task Force was assigned to monitor the areas by order of Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha.
Major General Wichan Suksong, Chief of the 15th Infantry Brigade in Narathiwat province, said that the move was designed to prevent IS members and other insurgent groups from entering and transporting explosives illegally into Thailand.
Speaking after the cabinet meeting, spokesperson of the Thai Government Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the closure of the border crossings is necessary to ensure security and national defence.
Authorities of Thailand’s southern provinces were also asked to tighten security, especially during the Ramadan month of Muslims.-VNA
