Latest update: 28/03/2008 

- Islam - Thailand


In the heart of the red zone
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The southern provinces of Thailand are its "red zone", where violence has raged since 2004. The army, police and local militias are everywhere here in this predominantly Muslim area. (Report: C.Payen/S.Kane/P.Lovett)

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The “Red Zone” in Thailand’s restive south has been torn by violence for the past 5 years. According to the government, more than 70,000 security forces are stationed in the three southern provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat and Yala.

 

The local Muslim community in one of the villages in the region is in mourning. Their Imam (religious leader) was arrested two days ago and died in custody.

 

According to Son Ramzy, a young Muslim activist, tension is kindled by the presence of security forces in the region.

 

More than a century after the region was annexed by Thailand, the 1.5 million Muslims living are still unable to integrate into the Thai state.

 

At least 3,000 people have been killed in separatist violence in the region.

 

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