Thailand to stay calm over attacks

Thailand to stay calm over attacks

BANGKOK (AFP): Thailand vowed on Friday it would not intrude
into Myanmar to chase guerrillas blamed for an attack on a police
border post and the kidnapping of three Thais.

Army chief Gen. Surayud Chulanond told reporters in his first
formal press conference since taking office last year that
Thailand would not resort to violence and would protest by
closing border checkpoints.

Thailand said last week that Yangon-backed ethnic Karen
guerrillas has crossed the border in northwest Mae Hong Son
province and attacked a police post. Three Thais were taken
hostage but were later released.

High-ranking Thai officials said earlier this week that the
attack, involving grenade launchers and automatic weapons, was
the work of Myanmar troops.