YALA -- Nine policemen were wounded, two seriously, when militants attacked a security checkpoint in Krong Pinang district early on Monday.
Pol Capt Pongsak Khaonuan, a Krong Pinangduty officer, said the attack on the checkpoint near a market in Moo 7 village of tambon Krong Pinang on Highway 410 (Yala - Betong) occurred about 1.15am.
An estimated 10 insurgents opened fire on the contingent there with war weapons including M79 grenade launchers. The 10 police manning the post returned fire.
After a brief firefight the militants retreated. They laid tree trunks and scattered metal spikes on the highway to deter a quick pursuit.
Nine policemen were wounded in the attack, two of them seriously. They were immediately rushed to Krong Pinang Hospital and then transferred to Yala Hospital later.
Those wounded are: Thirapat Sanitpu, Ariya Pimmatha, Jiradanai Butda, Heramin Kaseng, Prakij Chusap, Suhaimi Yakodung, Nikom Thongkhao, Kanoksak Musikarak and Arthit Thanadnangsue, all holding the rank of police lance corporal.