CityNews – The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned British travellers in Thailand that travel within the country could prove dangerous during the present political instability, but also that tourists should stay away from the South of Thailand as they have been informed that terrorists plan to target foreign tourists.
The FCO:
“…advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla on the Thai-Malaysia border. On 10 April 2014 the Australian authorities indicated that extremists may be planning to target westerners in the southern border provinces.”
In regards to the coup and ongoing demonstrations throughout the country they state:
“We are aware of some anti-coup demonstrations taking place in Bangkok and some other cities in Thailand. These may become violent. We recommend that you exercise extreme caution and remain alert to the situation. If you’re in any doubt about your safety, stay in your accommodation.”
The Chief of the Royal Thai Army has publicly stated that it is the intention of the army to protect all foreign tourists inside Thailand, although the army has also expressed that anyone, foreign or Thai, sharing or posting anti-coup messages deemed a ‘threat to national security’ on social media could face court martial proceedings.There have been no reports so far of any foreigners being hurt in what can be related to political instability, nor have any foreigners been detained so far by the military for violating the junta’s orders or the Criminal Code.