Rebel violence triggers Thai troop surge

BANGKOK, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Increased violence by militia groups in southern Thailand have prompted the deployment of more troops to the region, Thai authorities said Saturday.

Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center Director Pranai Suwannarat said paramilitary forces in the south would receive additional forces and "war rooms" would be created in all area villages, The Bangkok Star reported.

During the last week alone, attacks on military patrols in the troubled region have resulted in the deaths of eight Thai soldiers.

By establishing the war rooms in each southern village, Suwannarat said government officials hope to better coordinate military operations in the region.

Those military efforts would also benefit from more timely investigations of alleged separatist sympathizers.

The government official told the Star that regional authorities recently linked to a major espionage ring in the south must also be arrested in order for security to improve.