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.