16 Thai insurgents killed

16 Thai insurgents killed

It is the biggest loss rebels had in almost ten years.

Insurgents in uniforms

- About 30 rebels in military uniforms  attacked naval base just after midnight, said Capt. Somkiat Ponprayun.

- During the shooting that followed 16 insurgents killed, while the others fled.

Authorities seized 13 rifles, three pistols.

The Marines had received a tip from the locals about an impending attack, and were prepared when it happened. No soldiers were killed or wounded.

- There have been several attacks so far in February, and all military units have higher alert, says Somkiat Ponprayun.

Daily game

There have been almost daily clashes between soldiers and militants in Thailand's three southernmost provinces since 2004, and over 5,000 people are killed.

Background: Thailand's crisis of identity in the south

Soldiers and civil servants are seen as representatives of the government and  been the target of attacks.

The Muslim majority population in southern Thailand was once a separate state in the area and have long complained of discrimination by the government in Bangkok.

Little progress

The Thai government has tried to resolve the conflict by securing the support of local people and people who sympathize with the rebels, but progress has been small.