Singapore condems Thailand attacks, advises citizens to be vigilant
SINGAPORE — Singapore has condemned the series of bomb explosions in Thailand, adding that there have been no report so far of any Singaporeans injured or directly affected by the attacks.
Rescuers and medical officers push an injured person on a gurney at the site of a bomb blast in Hua Hin, south of Bangkok, on August 12, 2016. PHOTO: Reuters
SINGAPORE — Singapore has condemned the series of bomb explosions in Thailand, adding that there have been no report so far of any Singaporeans injured or directly affected by the attacks.
“Singapore strongly condemns the series of bomb explosions in Thailand, which have resulted in the loss of innocent lives and injuries to many. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” said a Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman in a statement. It added that it has contacted most of the registered Singaporeans in the affected areas and verified that they are safe and will continue to contact the remaining registered Singaporeans.
“Singaporeans in Thailand are advised to exercise vigilance, and monitor the local news and instructions of the Thai authorities,” it added.
Following the bombings in five provinces, which killed four and injured dozens, several countries and embassies in Thailand have updated their travel advisories for their nationals travelling there. “You should exercise extreme caution, avoid public places and follow the advice of local authorities,” said the British Embassy website.
The US Embassy recommended its citizens travelling to or residing in Thailand enrol with the Department of State in order to receive the latest security updates.
Regarding the latest incident in Hua Hin, the US Embassy posted on its website: “Travellers to the area should avoid the affected areas, review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions of local authorities.”
Australia issued a travel advisory saying Australians should “exercise a high degree of caution” and warned: “Further explosions in any part of Thailand are possible.”
The warning was echoed by Germany’s Foreign Ministry.
“Further attacks cannot be ruled out. Therefore the Foreign Ministry advises extreme caution. People travelling to Thailand are recommended to avoid public places and crowds of people, to follow the media closely,” said the ministry in its travel advisory.
The ministry also confirmed that three Germans had been injured in the attacks.
Those who are need of urgent consular assistance may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Thailand (Tel: +66-2 348-6700) or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours) at +66-81 844-3580
Fax: +66-(2) 348-6701
Email: singemb_bkk [at] mfa.sg
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)
Tel: 6379 8800, 6379 8855
Fax: 6476-7302
Email: mfa_duty_officer [at] mfa.gov.sg
