Rangers, officials deployed to Mae La refugee camp in Thailand following riot

Para-military rangers and administrative officials were deployed to Mae La refugee camp in Thung Song Yang district after a riot began about 7.30 pm. there on Tuesday night caused considerable damage.

The reasons behind the riot were not officially identified; however, one report mentioned it began when four Myanmar refugees entered the camp on two motorcycles without wearing face masks.

Defense volunteers assigned to the camp reprimanded them and seized the motorcycles, the report said.

The refugees asked for the return of their motorbikes but were refused. They began an angry protest and called on other refugees to join them. Many came out to join them and the number swelled to hundreds, according to the report.

The mob began rioting, setting fire to property, including 13 guard kiosks, houses, cars, and motorcycles belonging to camp officials.

Another report said the four refugees were detained and assaulted by the camp officials when they returned to the camp, fuelling anger and dissatisfaction in the camp.

The protesters agreed to end the riot and returned to their residences after deputy provincial governor Somchai Kitcharoenrungroj arrived and calmed them down.

Para-military rangers from the 35th Ranger Regiment were deployed around the camp to maintain law and order on Wednesday morning.

Officials planned talks with the refugees later in the day.

There are many camps holding war refugees from neighboring Myanmar along the border. Mae La refugee camp was established in 1984 and is said to be the largest, currently with about 40,000 residents.

SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES