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Security tightened after Koh Samui bomb

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Security has been tightened following a bomb explosion on the tourist island of Koh Samui.


The car bomb exploded in the basement parking area of the Central Festival shopping centre on the island late on Friday night.


Six local people and a 12-year-old Italian girl suffered minor injuries and have since been released from hospital. No British or Irish tourists were affected.


The Tourism Authority of Thailand said: “The incident is currently under police investigation. Initial reports suggest this is a result of civil political tension. The explosion was not aimed at tourists.


“However, security has been stepped up as a preventive measure to ensure the safety and security of tourists and local residents.


“All tourism-related businesses on Koh Samui including hotels, restaurants, bars, attractions and other shopping malls are operating normally.”


Songkran – Thai new year festival celebrations – will continue as planned until Wednesday.


Koh Samui international airport and other transportation services are operating as per usual, but with increased security, TAT added.


All airports and modes of transportation nationwide continue to operate services as usual, but tourists are advised to allow adequate travelling time due to the busier national holiday period, according to the tourist authority.


The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “On 10 April a car bomb exploded in the underground car park of the Central Festival shopping mall in Bho Phut on the island of Koh Samui. Seven people were injured in the explosion, including one foreigner.”

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