[UPDATED] GOF steps up intelligence along Thai border amid unrest

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's police have bolstered intelligence gathering along the country's border with Thailand in response to recent unrest in the southern Thai region. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department (ISPO) director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri disclosed that General Operations Force (GOF) intelligence units are among the additional personnel deployed to bolster surveillance and identify potential cross-border threats.

Enhanced manpower, intelligence resources, and assets have been reinforced along the northern border from Perlis to Kelantan, with heightened focus on Kelantan due to bombings occurring in areas near the Thai-Kelantan border. The police will maintain increased deployment in regions deemed at risk of intrusion or smuggling of restricted items.

Yusri confirmed the presence of GOF intelligence units on the ground and expressed willingness to collaborate with other agencies, including the Armed Forces. Thai police and military authorities have requested Malaysia's assistance in tracking down individuals linked to the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) who may have crossed the border.

While Malaysian authorities are cooperating with Thai counterparts, they have not disclosed specific intelligence details concerning individuals or exchanges between the two nations. Malaysian police have received wanted lists and other information from Thai authorities and are evaluating potential security risks, especially in Kelantan.

The enhanced security measures are in place following reports that Thai authorities suspected BRN-linked agents might have entered Malaysia as a result of the recent attacks in southern Thailand.