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Security stepped up across Thailand following resort bombings

Security has been stepped up across Thailand following last week’s bombings which killed four people and injured many others, including 11 foreigners.

The police presence has been increased nationwide and a raft of extra security measures put in place at airports, train stations and at major tourist attractions.

Thai authorities took action after four bombs targeted the resort of Hau Hin and several blasts hit Phuket over 24 hours on Thursday and Friday.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office urged travellers to “exercise caution” especially in public places and follow the advice of local authorities.

Police checkpoints have been set up in affected areas to search for suspects and all private and publically owned CCTV cameras are being checked.

Thailand’s emergency services and hospitals are on standby “in the unlikely event of any more incidents”.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand reassured international travellers that Thailand “remains a welcoming and secure destination and was visited safely by nearly 30 million people last year”.

Thailand’s ministry of tourism and sports has said that the long-term effects of the attacks “are likely to be minimal as the incidents don’t seem to be terrorism related”.

The ministry is maintaining a target of 2.4 trillion Baht of revenue from the tourism industry in 2016, compared to 2.24 trillion Baht generated in 2015 when 29.8 million tourists visited the country.

TAT governor, Yuthasak Supasorn, said: “We are pleased that life has quickly got back to normal in Hua Hin as it shows that people have confidence in the safety of Thailand and the increased security measures that have been put in place nationwide.

“There is so much to enjoy in Hua Hin and the surrounding areas and people should take the chance to explore.
 
“Tourists should remain defiant in the face of these incidents and feel safe carrying on with their holiday plans.”
TAT added: “The majority of tourists enjoy a safe and trouble-free holiday here in the kingdom.

“Thailand has long been known for the friendliness and hospitality of the Thai people as in this case that the injured people were able to receive medical treatments within a short space of time.

“TAT also would like to assure all tourists that locals and the police always do their utmost to ensure that in their country are safe and looked after at all times.

“It is worth repeating that Thailand is a very hospitable country and has welcomed international visitors with open arms throughout its history.

“However, unfortunate incidents can take place here as they can anywhere. Thailand recognises the huge importance of tourism to the nation, and tourist safety is an on-going priority for us.”

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