In 2004, long-simmering resentment in the southern-most Muslim-majority provinces burst into widespread violence in Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala provinces. Some rebel groups have threatened foreigners, and three foreigners were killed in bombings in Hat Yai in neighbouring Songkhla Province Further tourists and locals fell victim to this violence ever since. Main target of bomb attacks seem to be public markets, hotels, entertainment venues and shopping areas. Train services have repeatedly halted to all 3 southernmost provinces due to rebel activities targeting trains and killings of train staff.
