Spate of attacks rock Thailand's deep south, killing 3

Insurgents launched a wave of shooting, bombing and arson in Thailand's deep south Wednesday night, killing three and injured a few, local media reported Thursday.

The Muslim insurgents launched more than 10 coordinated attacks in Thailand's three southernmost provinces almost simultaneously late Wednesday night, said Nation TV.

Four attacks happened in Songkla Province. The Chana district was hit by a bomb explosion, causing fire at a Isuzu car showroom. Two security guards were killed.

Meanwhile, an ATM machine in front of a petrol station was bombed. Three were injured from the blast.

Six attacks were reported in Pattani Province at about 9:35 p.m. local time on Wednesday. Four gunmen on two motorcycles opened fire on a military facility, killing a soldier.

A 7-elven shop and several power poles were blasted, injuring a dozen of people and causing electricity blackout in large areas. Insurgents burnt car tires and attacked a ranger base on highway.

Narathiwat Province saw two attacks. Car tires were set on fire in downtown, causing traffic paralyzing.

The attacks occurred on the same day when members of the cabinet, led by junta member Udomdej Sitabutr, visited Pattani and met with local religious leaders to seek peace dialogues.

The conflicts in Thailand's deep south dated back to 1960s. The three southernmost provinces most populated with Muslims have struggled for independence in the predominately Buddhist country. The insurgency has killed more than 6,500 in the past 12 years.

Udomdej's delegation was part of the "Forward Cabinet," a special government task force set up to handle the southern insurgency. Enditem