Revelers in South warned over Songkran

Authorities have warned residents and tourists in the Thai deep south to remain extra vigilant for terrorist attacks during the Songkran celebrations next week.

Reports have come in from intelligence that suspected separatists have started to transfer weapons in possible preparation to launch an attack. Areas most likely affected are said to be Yaha and Bannang Sata districts in Yala province.

Along with the traditional Thai New Year of Songkran in April is the fourth anniversary of the Krue Se massacre where numerous militants were killed in a mosque by the army.

April 2008 also sees the 60th anniversary of the 1948 Dusongyor riot in Narathiwat (April 28), which is widely cited as the beginning of the southern separatist movement.

An explosion was reported on Monday morning in the Joh Airong district of Narathiwat province causing a blackout. No injuries were reported, however.

Songkran is traditionally celebrated between April 13 to 15 and involves lots of parading and especially water throwing.

Tourists in the area should keep a low profile and celebrate the festival elsewhere in the country if they would like to get involved in the fun.