Markets lively in southern Thailand

[News Bandit]

Markets lively in southern Thailand

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วันศุกร์ ที่ 12 ต.ค. 2555

YALA, Oct 12 -- Despite leaflets and rumours warning business operators and shoppers stay away from Friday markets, the atmosphere at markets here in Thailand's southern provinces is more robust today compared with the previous two weeks amid tight security to provide safety for traders and shoppers.

Business at the Yala's Pimonchai fresh market was busier today than in recent weeks as more shops opened following a near lull for the past two Fridays. Both Thai and Muslim traders were selling their goods while shoppers were coming out to buy food and other goods normally.

It is the third Friday market to coincide with threats from rumours spread last month, warning shopkeepers, market and street vendors of possible violence if they carry on their businesses as usual on Fridays.

Shops in Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala as well as some districts in Songkhla have been closed for the last several Fridays to avoid such attacks.

At Yala's old market area where there is a Muslim community, some shops and stalls have also opened.

In Pattani, a vigorous market was seen at Thetwiwat 1 in Pattani municipality. More shops have resumed business than in previous weeks.

However, merchants outside the provincial seat still feared for their safety, not wanting to take a chance at being targeted with violence. Traffic in Pattani municipality was reduced.

Combined military, police and local government civil servants has been deployed in the provincial seats of Yala and Pattani while strict security has been applied to ensure the safety of the public. (MCOT online news)
 

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