Armed forces come under attack in the news - on issues ranging from ‘Don Muang 51’ to disappearing guns - translated and summarized from Komchadluek; Column: Talui Kong Tap; Author: Security reporters, March 2, 2008
The following may all figure in an elaborate plot to use the media to discredit the armed forces: The establishment of the ‘Don Muang 51’ anti-terrorist group, its possible deployment to provide security for the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and the recent disappearance of firearms from a military armory.
A special military force has been established by Supreme Command HQ for the purpose of countering international terrorist attacks. The group undertook its initial training session, under the codename of ‘Don Muang 51’, during the period February 19 - 22. Many observers are closely-monitoring this group, as its initial training session took place only a few days before the return of a former leader of the country from exile.
Some say that the ‘Don Muang 51’ group was set up to provide security for the return of deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra on February 28. A total of 792 officers, from 40 organizations, were involved in the initial training session.
According to some sources, Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niampradit has been forced to make a statement to the effect that the group’s initial training session was not in preparation for the return of Thaksin Shinawatra. It is believed that this lack of transparency in the group’s establishment could result in some discredit to the armed forces.
Some sources are also saying that they believe that the recent disappearance of three firearms, from the armory of a military unit, was part of a plot to ambush Thaksin Shinawatra on his return from exile.
It is noticeable that all current news emanating from the armed forces, both good and bad, is acting to their discredit.
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