Thousands of Teachers Strike in South, Demand Gov't Protection Against Muslim Militants

December 23, 2004

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4119965.stm

On December 23, 2004 the BBC News reported, "Thousands of teachers have gone on strike in southern Thailand, urging the authorities to do more to protect them from attacks by Muslim militants.

Teachers say they are perceived by the rebels to be representatives of the Buddhist-dominated administration.

Bangkok said it would send 2,000 extra policemen south to boost security.

The move came as a senior Thai security official said intelligence suggested militants were planning attacks on the country's tourist spots next year.

One of the main focuses of the southern violence which began almost a year ago has been schools. Hundreds have been burnt down and a number of teachers have been killed."