Two Suspects Arrested in Phang Nga with Bomb in Car Uncovers Further Operation in Phuket 

Phuket, Thailand – June 2025 — Thai authorities have arrested two men suspected of plotting a bombing at Phuket International Airport, following a multi-agency investigation that revealed striking similarities to a failed 2012 bombing attempt in Narathiwat.

The suspects, both from Pattani in the country’s deep south, were intercepted in neighboring Phang Nga shortly after the alleged operation. Investigators identified bomb circuit components that matched devices recovered during a thwarted attack in 2012. This discovery prompted the Pattani Provincial Court to issue arrest warrants under Thailand’s Emergency Decree, enabling the detention and interrogation of the suspects—identified as Mr. Muhama and Mr. Sulaiman.

During transport, authorities separated the suspects into different vehicles for questioning. Mr. Muhama admitted involvement and revealed that a white motorcycle, was used as the bomb carrier and left at the Phuket airport.

Thai police confirmed that the suspects’ testimony corresponded with CCTV footage from multiple checkpoints and public areas. Law enforcement agencies are analyzing data to identify potential collaborators and to ensure broader regional security.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to heightened security, especially in major tourist destinations like Phuket. The case has reignited concerns about sleeper cells and rekindled memories of past insurgent activity in southern Thailand.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging the public to remain alert while reassuring both residents and tourists that all necessary precautions are being taken.

Related articles:

In the early morning hours of June 24, 2025, authorities in Phang Nga intercepted a passenger vehicle carrying a suspected explosive device, effectively averting a potential security threat aimed at Phuket.

Phuket International Airport (HKT) initiated a security protocol on June 25, 2025, following the discovery of a suspicious motorcycle left unattended in the domestic terminal’s motorcycle parking area.

Officials are still working to identify the nature of a suspicious object discovered inside a motorcycle parked at Phuket International Airport’s domestic terminal. The discovery led to a controlled detonation on the evening of June 25th, but authorities have yet to confirm whether the item was an actual explosive.

Phuket International Airport has resumed normal operations following the resolution of a security incident involving a suspicious motorcycle, prompting a temporary emergency protocol.

A second suspected explosive device was discovered on Thursday morning, June 26th on Patong Beach.

Authorities in Phuket have successfully located and neutralized three of four suspected explosive devices, following the arrest of two individuals from Pattani province earlier this week.

Phang Nga authorities confirmed the province remains secure after a suspicious object resembling an artificial stone was discovered and safely deactivated in front of the Governor’s residence.

Krabi officials have reassured residents and visitors of the province’s safety following a series of security incidents involving suspected explosive devices and online threats.

Authorities in Phuket have successfully located and destroyed a suspicious device buried near a construction site at Surin Beach in Cherng Talay, following a confession by a suspect linked to a broader bombing plot across southern Thailand.

Phuket International Airport (HKT) has announced revised access routes to both international and domestic terminals, aligning with new stringent security protocols.

Phuket Province Affirms Public Safety and Implements Enhanced Security Measures to Ensure Continued Confidence Among Residents and Tourists.

Subscribe
Goong Nang Suksawat
Goong Nang is a News Translator who has worked professionally for multiple news organizations in Thailand for more than eight years and has worked with The Pattaya News for more than six years. Specializes primarily in local news for Phuket, Pattaya, and also some national news, with emphasis on translation between Thai to English and working as an intermediary between reporters and English-speaking writers. Originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, but lives in Phuket and Krabi except when commuting between the three.