The discovery at Laem Phromthep was made around midday today (June 26) after officers were alerted to the possible threat. The device was hidden in a gap in the cement at the stairs leading down to the scenic viewpoint, one of Phuket’s most visited tourist spots.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers, regional and provincial police, and Rawai Municipality’s disaster prevention team, secured the area and brought in a fire truck as part of the safety operation.
The suspicious object was identified as a Thai ‘Ko Gae’ snack canister, which had been modified and connected to a timing circuit set to 118 hours. Officers made multiple attempts to destroy the device, successfully neutralising it on the fourth attempt.
Police confirmed that out of the four locations previously reported by the perpetrators, three have now been cleared. One location in Patong is still under investigation.
Forensic teams are now working with police to continue the investigation at the scene.
The device at Laem Phromthep follows the earlier discovery of a suspicious object at Patong Beach, which was also destroyed as a precaution earlier today.
Security was also tightened at Phuket International Airport after a motorbike with a “suspicious device” was found parked near the domestic terminal. The device was destroyed in a controlled explosion.
Two suspects arrested in Phang Nga have confessed to planning coordinated bomb attacks across Phuket, targeting the airport, Laem Phromthep and Patong Beach.
Investigations are continuing to locate any remaining threats and determine whether the plot is connected to wider security concerns.