Security officials investigating a bombing in the southern Thai province of Yala on Tuesday that injured scores of victims, including young students, have identified the possible mastermind: an insurgent leader "competing" to take over terror operations after his area chief was killed recently.The man named was Abdulloh Pulah, who sources said was demonstrating his potential against another area terrorist in Yala, Hubaidilah Romli, for the position of provincial terror chief -- replacing Ma-ae Aphibalbae, who was gunned down recently in a gunfight with authorities. Abdulloh is wanted on several criminal charges and for terror attacks, and his colleagues include his cell's bomb-maker, Kohseng Toh.
Among the many victims in Tuesday's explosion across from a school in Bannang Sata district, Sergeant Major Saroj, 45, Wednesday succumbed to severe head wounds.
Police are also tracking Muhammad Hayisamoh, another suspect implicated in Tuesday's bombing. An unidentified suspect is in the custody of Army rangers, according to a military source.
More patrols by Army rangers are being provided along the route to Tao Poon School after the bomb attack while evidence is being gathered, he said.