About 16 armed The
The brutal attack was caught on a security camera installed in a well-hidden place nearby. The five minutes of footage was then leaked by local officials to the media. Those who want to see extreme violence may view the video on YouTube. It is not appropriate for children, the workplace or those easily upset.
In the footage, the faces of some of the
Army deputy spokesman Col Winthai Suwaree said, "We want people to condemn the actions of the southern militants. Soldiers are ready to sacrifice everything as long as the people understand us and give us moral support."
Local police said the soldiers were not able to defend themselves and were blown off their motorcycles.
The assailants rushed the victims and shot them in the groin and head before taking four M16 assault rifles, armor, radio devices and helmets.
Sgt Prida and Pvt Akom, who were behind the others, were injured and shot back at the assailants. The gunfight lasted about five minutes before the assailants fled.
Muslim leaders and peace advocates denounced the attack. Former deputy chairman of the Yala Provincial Islamic Committee, Nimu Makaje, said the attackers were not Muslims because they did not honor Allah's teaching that his followers should help promote peace and unity. He said, "They must stop their actions now. It is a sin to kill people."
This killing of four soldiers was the fourth major incident of violence since the start of Ramandan.