January 14, 2005

New infantry division planned for deep South

 Military leaders yesterday reported to Prime Minister Thaksin

Shinawatra about plans for a new infantry division in the deep South.

 Deputy Supreme Commander Gen Sirichai Tunyasiri, director of the

Southern Border Provinces Peace-building Command, said the division _ to

be designated the 15th Infantry Division _ would have about 10,000

soldiers.

 Also at the meeting were Defence Minister Sumpun Boonyanun and senior

military officers. Gen Sirichai said the division will take over responsibilities from the

Fourth Army in Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat provinces.

 ``The infantry division will be different from ones designed for

national defence only. This division will have psychological,

development and other units necessary to ensure security in the area,''

he said. Mr Thaksin said the details may not be finished in time for next week's

cabinet meeting.