The Memo: 12 Aug—18 Aug 2024

In brief:

• Two assailants injure paramilitary with pipe bombs in Narathiwat.
• High alert over potential terror threats during Independence Day week in Delhi.
• Iraq arrests female IS member managing Women's Affairs, finances.
• Beijing uncovers 1,000 Taiwanese espionage cases, targets pro-independence forces aggressively.
• China backs Myanmar junta's election plan amid escalating conflict and tensions.

Terrorism and insurgency

1. Thailand
   Two assailants hurled pipe bombs at the Batu checkpoint in Narathiwat, injuring one paramilitary volunteer and causing property damage. CCTV footage captured the suspects approaching on foot before throwing the explosives and fleeing on a motorcycle.
   
2. India
   The intelligence department and police were on high alert following reports that terror operatives from Jammu might attempt a suicide attack in Delhi or Punjab during Independence Day week. The potential threat was considered higher a day or two after August 15, given the heavy security on the day itself. Observations include suspicious movements near Kathua and the arrival of explosives in Jammu. Authorities were focusing on a possible nexus of gangsters, radicals, and terrorists aiming to disrupt Independence Day celebrations. Security measures in Delhi were increased in anticipation.
   
3. Iraq
   The Directorate General of Intelligence and Security in Iraq arrested a female Islamic State (IS) member responsible for managing Women's Affairs in prison and distributing financial aid to IS women in Nineveh Governorate. The arrest was carried out by the Special Intelligence Tasks Cell under the Ministry of Defense. The woman was part of the Al-Khansaa Brigade within Wilayat Nineveh and is wanted under Iraq’s Anti-Terrorism Law.

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Intelligence, Espionage, Assassination and Covert Actions

1. China
   Beijing's top spy agency revealed it has uncovered over 1,000 cases of Taiwanese espionage during recent crackdowns, targeting pro-independence forces. The Ministry of State Security reported destroying numerous spy networks and highlighted the arrest of Taiwanese activist Yang Chih-yuan, who faces secession charges in mainland China. The ministry vowed to continue its efforts against Taiwan-related separatism and criticised Taiwan's ruling party for harming the island's interests.

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Conflict and unrests

1. Myanmar
   China supports Myanmar’s military junta's plan to hold elections next year to resolve the ongoing conflict. Speaking at a meeting in Thailand with Lancang-Mekong Cooperation officials, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged neighbouring countries to back Myanmar’s stability and respect certain red lines, including preventing civil wars and external interference. The US, meanwhile, held talks with Myanmar’s opposition, pledging continued support for a civilian government transition.

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