Lukman Iskandar
Lukman though mysteriously emerged in Patani politics in early 1970, but believed to have been born in Pak Bara, Langu District where his father opened the first Islamic religious school in Satun Province, supported and encouraged by Datuk Che Lah.
From these scenarios and dimensions, Lukman is not a stranger and outsider of Thailand's politics. Lukman was seen on many occasions with his uncle, Adnan Langputih, and this man loved him so much. Adnan regarded Lukman as his own son because he was more closed to Adnan rather than his own father. Lukman met Haji Harun much more earlier through the recommendation of Abdul Qayoom. He was picked up by Haji Harun to teach at Thamwitya Mulniti.
When Lukman joined Thamwitya, he had vast knowledge of Pattani liberation struggle. He was not a new figure in Pattani politics. He knew and had met Tengku Jalal personally in Pasir Puteh, Kelantan (Malaysia); and he met and had personal contacts with Yusoff Chapakiya. Lukman, during his college holidays, at the age of 17 or 18, had been staying for weeks or months at Tengku Jalal's house and Yusoff's house. Jalal's wife was said to have been related to him; and Yusoff's wife, from Perigi, is also related to him. But from these sources, Lukman is not being known as Lukman, instead he has been addressed as nickname "Ding", a popular name which he is known in Satun Province among friends and relatives.
Lukman's involvement.
His early involvement in Patani politic was believed to be from Perigi Village (Prekee), District of Yarang, Pattani Province. He was seen together with Osman, nephew of Yusoff's wife. Osman now living in Jakarta, married to a Javanese girl after his graduation from an Indonesian university. Osman's elder brother, Ahmad, is attached to Thai Embassy in Jakarta.
Lukman was also seen at Tengku Jalal's house in a function attended by Ding Jerman and Shakrani (Seni Madakakul), lecturer of Prince of Songkhla University (then became a Member of Parliament). Lukman is said to have been involved in Black 1902, the gruesome urban guerrilla group in early 1970s, responsible for kidnapping of 3 Christian Missionaries in Saiburi. Black 1902 was formed by Cikgu Ding, ABRIP Deputy Commander in 1972. Because of the same name "Ding" Lukman was alleged to have been involved deeply with Black 1902 military operations and other hostile acts against Thai authorities.
There is no shortcut to Patani liberation struggle for a stranger and an outsider. No foreigner or outsider is stupid enough to join undetermined future of Pattani politics. Nobody, either Region Four Army, the Region Nine Police, Privy Council or the Prime Minister's Department would make a mistake when dealing with the liberation struggle especially the issue of the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand.
It's not the matter of one day struggle or conspiracies to siphon the government's budget.
It's the matter of continuity of Patani liberation struggle.
Correcting facts
We would like to correct the article written in the Bangkok Post "Deceiving the Commander of Region Four Army". Deceiving the Commander is deceiving the sovereign government of the
Kingdom of Thailand. The meetings and discussions on matters pertaining to the stability and peace in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand had been in progress since Lt. General Kitti
Rathanachaya, Commander of Region Four Army since 1991. It was held in the name of PKRRP, a radical military wing of BRN, led by Lukman Iskandar. The Chairman of PKRRP was known by code-name of Colonel A. Yani.
Since its formation in 1986, PKRRP was led by Colonel A. Yani. A. Yani from 1986-1989 was
Awang Abdullah Kabir, an Indonesian MA graduate from an Indonesian university, leader of
now-defunct Mujahiddin of Patani. Awang Abdullah (who is known as Awang Jabat) was replaced by Halim Hasamoh, popularly known by Halim Jabat (another graduate from an Indonesian university). Halim also sustained the name Colonel A. Yani. Halim held the post from 1989 - 1992.
A. Yani of PKRRP was replaced by Lukman Iskandar who also maintained the name of Colonel A. Yani. Lukman held the post from 1992-1995.
22-POINT DEMAND
The 22 Points Demand was submitted on 18 November 1991. Prior to the submission, Region Four Army and PKRRP had entered into a few series of talks held in Kuala Lumpur and Nakorn Srithammarat. The meeting was convened at Pan Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur dated 18 November 1991. Those attended were Cikgu Bakar (Commander of BRN's 3rd Brigade and PKRRP's Commander in Chief), Ahmad Matnor (popular by the name Ahmad Jabat), Nasir Banniang (former PULO urban guerrilla who joined BRN), Dr. Omar Mohammad (an imported member of BRN from Acheh, Indonesia), Pak Tariq (another field commander of BRN), Pakcik Nan Kongpinang (another field commander of BRN) and finally Lukman Iskandar. Region Four Army was represented by Colonel Charint Amonkeaw and Colonel Akhanik Mensawat.
The meeting was convened in a stronghold area, controlled by Lukman's supporters from Patani who joined UMNO (the main political party in Malaysia), known as Raja Laut Road. Lukman was the big boss of Patani residents in Raja Laut area. Lukman used Raja Laut UMNO's branch as platform to criticize, condemn and attack Mahathir (and his cronies) on alleged corruption, abused of powers, malpractice, and misadministration of UMNO's building and funds. Lukman actively supported Anwar in his bid to win the highest majority for Vice Presidency post (of UMNO).
Lukman arrested under ISA
Lukman was picked up by Malaysian Secret Police on 16 January 1992 and jailed under draconian ISA (Internal Security Act). Ahmad Jabat, Cikgu Bakar, Nasir Banniang and Dr. Omar went ahead with the peace initiatives; and finally the meeting was convened again in Kuala Lumpur Hilton International Hotel dated 26, 27 and 28 April 1992. A preliminary peace agreement was signed dated 28th April 1992 between Region Four Army and PKRRP. This agreement is known as FIVE POINTS RESOLUTION. We have full recorded minutes of the meeting prepared by Region Four Army).
We would like to elaborate here that this is not the matter of one or two days meeting; but based on long established and top-secret continuity peace discussions between the Region Four Army, representing the sovereign Thai government and the longest political foe in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand who rejected to recognize Thailand's authoritative rule.
Early peace offer
The first secret meeting was convened at Tengku Jalal's house in 1973. Thai government was represented by its Consulate General in Kota Bharu, Khun Prasert and Lukman Iskandar. However Amin rejected the proposed peace accord.
Lukman again made another statement in December 1976 urging Thai government to enter into peace initiatives with BRN in order to avoid bloodshed, and increasing death-tolls. He invited Thai government to choose Australia or Malaysia as appropriate place for the preliminary peace talk. But there was no response from Thai government, led by Dr. Thanin Kraivichien.
The article claimed that Lukman was Amin's Political Secretary and later was sacked by Amin. There was no reasons stated or mentioned in the article for the sacking.
Let us clear the air regarding this appointment. The appointment of Lukman as Political Secretary was made by Supreme Command Council (SCC) of BRN. Lukman was appointed as Political Secretary to Amin, on his (Amin's) capacity as President of BRN in 1974. The same year when BRN wanted to form its Urban Guerrilla Brigade (UGB), Lukman was assigned to lead UGB. UGB or popular by the name GURBAN (shortened from Gerila Bandar or Urban Geurrilla) was administered by a committee comprise of 4 persons. Kadir Bukit Kong (or Kadir Mayor) was appointed Chairman of the committee; Masari Savari (Syrian-trained commando and Algerian graduate; son-in-law of Kru Pok Su - former guerrilla leader of BRN), Ariffin (Adnan's brother-in-law) and Lukman. Ariffin held post as Intelligence Chief of UGB, but six months after the commission by SCC, Ariffin was slain by an unknown gunman in Sabayoi District. His death remained a clue until now. Lukman took over the task as new Intelligence Chief and was also in-charge of UGB's Recruitment and Operation. Masari was in-charge of Training and Logistic.
Teaching
Lukman was teaching at various Islamic institutions such as Maahad Darul Maarif (controlled by Islamic religious Committee of Pattani), Thamwitya Mulniti (Yala) and Mahadil Ulum (Cherang Batu, Rhu Sembilan, Pattani). He recruited almost 600 members of UGB between 1974 - 1976. At the initial stage, his commandos were trained by Masari at Cherang Tadung, after Kru Pok Su surrendered to Thai authorities and the place had been used as safe haven for many years. When the government realized about the training, Lukman quickly moved the training ground from Cherang Tadung to ABREP's camps in Bendang Star - Yaha areas in the dense jungle of Yala Provinces.
Among the first batches of UGB members who had been sent overseas to continue their education were Fauziah (a lady, now married to a Yemeni and is residing in Mecca), Mat Zahari (now an owner of an Islamic School in Lubang Buaya, Yarang District, Patani), Sahlan Ismail from Tammalang, Satun Province (who slain Headman Chewangi of Ruso), Saufi (now residing in Padang Besar, Sadoa District, Songkhla), and many others which is too long to write in this clarification. There are lady's guerrillas too such Asiah, Misbah, Asmah and Amla. Asiah later graduated from UKM (National Univerity of Malaysia); while Asmah and Misbah studied in Algeria like Fauziah too. Asmah is still an active member of BRN Women's Wing.
UGB was really in existence. Lukman, as well as Masari and Kadir were organizing covert operations against Thai military positions in the Southern Border Provinces, they were moving in what is termed as "underground networks" . Kadir was not known to be an active member of BRN until he was arrested together with Abdullah Patra, another MA graduate from Karachi University. Kadir and Abdullah had been sentenced for 20 years imprisonment for plots and insurgencies against Thai government. Abdullah died in the prison. Kadir, released after clemency, 10 years earlier.
Lukman was sacked by SCC members.
Amin was not the only person who sacked Lukman. It involved the whole structure of SCC in 1977. Amin called an emergency meeting to decide the future of Lukman, convened at Mahadil Ulum School, Rhu Sembilan. SCC members were invited. They were Mohktar Waba (present Senator - Utit Smachit) and owner of a school in Saiburi), Shafie Basa (Principal of Thamwitya Mulniti), Haji Latiff (Owner of Mahadil Ulum School), Ahmad Majid (owner of another Islamic school in Napharadu), Abdulrahman Ahmad (owner of an Islamic School in Pombeng, known as Tok Pombeng), Ahmad Wan Lembut (Principal of Maahad Darul Maarif), Ahmad Samuddin (Senior lecturer of Thamwitya Mulniti), Abdullah Patra, Kadir Mayor, Zakaria Zali and min himself presided the meeting.
The meeting condemned Lukman to death as he was alleged to be a traitor to the course of independence of Pattani. Among the reasons (1) He was a planted Malaysian Military Intelligence Officer who had been infiltrated into BRN, and had connections with Thai Military Intelligence (2) He had misled the ABREP to have direct military confrontation with CPM terrorists (3) He had committed a great sin (adultery with Amin’s daughter). The 11 SCC members sentenced Lukman to death. This action had been charged by Lukman as Military Dictatorship Court Martial.
The letters of assassination were sent out to Masari in Cherang Tadung; and another one sent to Chikgu Ping (or Razak Buerasoh), Commander in Chief of ABREP.
The sacking of Cikgu Ping and Masari
Masari didn't obey the order; and Chikgu Ping ignored the order and leaked the secret to Lukman by showing the Presidential Order based on SCC's resolution at Rhu Sembilan to Lukman personally. This incident happened in 1977 when Lukman was in the jungle, in full-green combat uniform with ABREP. He just returned from a joint military operation with Malaysian Army in the attacks on CPM bases in the border areas. The operation is known as Operasi Cahaya Bina led by General Hassan Salleh (Malaysia) and General Pin Thamasirit (Region 4 Commander). Lukman was present in the officers' meeting wearing Malaysian Army uniform. He was talking to General Pin in front of General Hassan Salleh!!
This was a high military covert operation planned by Military Intelligence of Malaysia, Malaysia National Security Council and the Special Branch (Police). Who deceived whom? The real operation existed between Malaysian Army and ABREP, not with the Thai Army. One of the senior officers was Lt. Colonel Ali Alwi. After 15 years he was promoted to Lt. General and became Deputy Commander of Malaysian Army. Director of Military Intelligence, General Ahmad Abdul Kadir was asked to resign when Lukman was arrested under ISA. Deputy Commander of Malaysian Army, General Sany had been promoted as Commander in Chief, and later resigned (by King's request) and banished to Holland; Police Major General Ibrahim Yeop, Deputy SB Director was promoted and became Chief Police Officer of Kelantan state and later advised to retire.
Conspiracy to overthrow Malaysian government
The conspiracy to overthrow Malaysian government by the radical Malaysian generals is not a matter of joke. Malaysia was at a peak of serious internal political conflicts - the tussle between rival UMNO (the ruling party) Youth Chief, Harun Idris and Hussin Onn (Prime Minister of Malaysia). Harun was supported by some veteran ministers and politicians including the influential UMNO Secretary General, Senu Abdulrahman (whose wife is Lukman's untie, from Satun Province). External political and moral supports came from the Armed Forces led by General Sany, Commander-in-Chief (four star general).
If the secret didn't leak, dated 7 July 1977, Malaysia was already proclaimed as a Republic. It was not a matter of overthrowing the entire elected democratic government and the abolition of complex monarchy system with dozens of kings and rulers, but it involved the future of the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand (the five provinces). The new proposed military government would proclaim Malaysia as an Islamic Republic. The new Islamic Republic would march their troops across the border and liberate the whole portion of South Thailand. The example was there to witness where Indonesian army marched into East Timor in 1975. Same theory would be applied to South Thailand.
The issue (of this proposed military coup de tat) is very sensitive and therefore no publicity had been given. It involved the whole structure of Malaysian Intelligence Organization
We can provide you details of chronological event because we had launched so many joint operations via our underground networks with Malaysian Army.
Lukman and Region 9 Police Chief
We can also provide you details of information how Lukman met Police Lt. General Michai Nukhunkit, Region Nine Police Chief in 1995. We don’t have to tell you here that Lukman had been sleeping on the same bed with General Michai in BB Hotel, JB Hotel in Hatyai and Pan Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur. Even to the extent that he also met Police General Chumporn Akasard, Deputy Police Chief of Thailand.
We are not surprised with information that Lukman also met Air Chief Marshall Somboon Rahong, Deputy PM in Banharn’s Cabinet (1996) witnessed by three officials from Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok. For what reason we want to bullshit you about “hints” of our modus operandi?
Masari and Cikgu Ping were sacked by Amin. Lukman started his military and political maneuvers to fight Amin and his faithful and loyal supporters in SCC. This is termed as Revolution in the Liberation Front led by Lukman Iskandar. His moves gained support from the remaining SCC members who were not reciding inside the homeland. They were Ahmad Shariff, Ahmad Soebarjo (another MA graduate from an Indonesian university) and Ustaz Karim (BRN Secretary General).
We want to make it clear that those days, Thai government was only controlling 10 % of the Southern Border Provinces; almost 90 % controlled by BRN especially in the rural areas.
Lukman's assassination order sparked the conflicts in BRN and later blew into the serious leadership crisis. We are talking about revolution or war of liberation - about the bloodshed.
Lukman led the rebellion against Amin, whom he regarded as a dictator just like Idi Amin of Uganda. Crisis with Amin was personal and had nothing to do with politics. Lukman was a very close figure to Amin and he knew all the damned secrets of Amin. He stayed with Amin, and had been regarded by Amin as his own son. He drove cars belong to Amin and always accompanied Amin on many, though not all occasions, even when meeting the Thai officials. What was the real secret that led to the issue of Letter of Assassination? Nothing, it was only a love affairs between Amin's daughter and Lukman.
The girl's name is Noraini, known as Nor. She is the daughter of Wan Ahmad, Amin's brother who had been slaughtered by Thai authorities. She was brought up by Amin as his own daughter. Amin rejected the marriage because Lukman was engaged to Faridah, the Chaokunsaman Pakdee’s grand-daughter (daughter of Dr. Haji Harun – Chairman of Thamwitya Mulniti). Shafie Basa who married the elder sister, Shakinah, also sabotaged Lukman's marriage to Faridah. At last Lukman couldn't marry either of them.
Shafie was aware than he could become a big man in Thamwitya Mulniti if Lukman was there. So he must kick Lukman out from the college by instigating Amin. The time came when Lukman was heard to have entangled into a love affair with Noraini, while Faridah was away in Libya.
Lukman had been imprisoned on many occasions by Malaysian government, and Amin is protected. This is what a stubborn and egoistic Semae said, "Who will arrest me in Malaysia because I cooperated with Malaysian government to combat CPM terrorists?" He forgot Lukman's experience. After the operations, there was not even a single word of thank or appreciation, but the jail terms granted as his award and their (Malaysia) reward.
Malaysia supports PULO?
Neither BRN nor PULO won't be able to survive if there were no blessings from Malaysia. Because of his radical stance and attitude against Malaysia, Lukman is a persona non grata in Malaysia's soil. Malaysia preferred "Yes men" from Patani. In its early days, Malaysia regarded BRN as a subversive element and many BRN leaders landed in Malaysian jails during Indonesian Military Confrontation (1963-64). During the peak of communists' threat, Malaysia tried to convince BRN to joint-military operations. BRN accepted the offer in 1976-77. Lukman was the front-liner in these military operations.
Did you know how it started? Since the crackdown of Indonesian Military Confrontation (1964), BRN remained firm that Malaysia was a reactionary regime, therefore there was no compromise with Malaysia. In 1975, Senu Abdulrahman became Secretary General of UMNO, the powerful ruling party in Malaysia. Senu and Abdulrahman (then Police Chief of Malaysia) proposed to Tun Razak (Prime Minister) to look for an ally among Patani liberation groups. The task was assigned to Senu, because he was from Kedah State and his wife was from Satun Province. By coincidence, Lukman's uncle, Adun Langchit came to Yala where his son, Somchit Langchit was staying in Yala with Lukman (Lukman was teaching at Thamwitya Mulniti). Adun (uncle to Vithoon Langchit - ex-MP for Satun), told Lukman that Senu wanted to see him to talk about matters related to five provinces. Lukman left to Kuala Lumpur. He met Senu at UMNO Head Quarters.
Senu invited a gentleman known as Amir Yaacob, Secretary of National Security Council (later became Director General of Immigration Department) in the discussions. The major issues raised were the supply of firearms and ammunition to CPM terrorists by Thai authorities; and the increased encouragement and support of CPM chiefs by Thai authorities.
Malaysia's stance was firm in dealing with issues such as in Philippines and Indonesia. Senu was Malaysian Embassador to Indonesia before Indonesian Military Confrontation. Senu was also persona non grata in Indonesia because he graduated from University of California at Berkeley. Indonesia's ideology was NASAKOM (Nationalism, Religion and Communism). Its foreign policy was clearly anti-international imperialism led by USA and Zionists. Senu picked up Sukarno's bodyguard to be Malaysia's (then Malaya) super agent.
Back in Philippines, Sabah became a major issue. Philippines claimed that Sabah was part of Philippines, and anonymously passed Bill in its Parliament that Sabah was part of Philippines. Everywhere in the coffee shops, people talked about the claim on Sabah. Malaysia came out with the idea. Invited Nur Misuari and his group. Malaysia established contacts with Libya and sent youths from Mondanoa for military training in Libya. When they returned, Malaysia delivered firearms to Mindanoa (from Libya) using Pakistan International Airways direct flight to Sabah.
Malaysia supports BRN?
So in Patani case, Malaysia had agreed to support an old-thorn (BRN) provided that BRN agreed to cooperate in the military crackdown of communist terrorists along the border areas. In principle, Lukman agreed but in practice, he must bring this matter to the top level (BRN Supreme Command Council).
Two weeks later, Amin, Shafie Baso and Lukman joined Senu in Kuala Lumpur. They resided at a hotel known as Indra Hotel (later changed to Hotel Wilayah - where the secret meeting with Region Four Army was convened in 1991). At the hotel they met Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Samad Idris. The same year, military operations were launched on communists' hideouts in Weng (Narathiwat), and followed by another joint-military operation in Betong areas.
Lukman was in the front line. Most of the officers were his classmates either at the college or university. The attacks on CPM hideouts were not only launched by artillery but also by jetfighters' bombardments. Did you know that the Commander of Malaysia Air Force was a Pattani-born guy? His name is Lieutenant General (Air Force) Mohamad bin Taib. He is one of the top, newly restructured BRN leaders! Do you know that this gentleman is now in Raman District,
Yala Province? He married a local girl there and lives as an ordinary gentleman!!
Some of Lukman's classmates are now serving as Brigadier General (Air Force), and one of the retired top-guns is Lieutenant General Ali Alwi, Deputy Army Commander-in-Chief. The previous operations' commanders are still alive such as Lt. General Ahmad Abdul Kadir (former Director of Military Intelligence, who recruited Lukman as his Military Intelligence Officer), Lt. General Hassan Salleh (former Military Commander of East Malaysia), 4-star General Sany
(Supreme Commander, who intent to overthrow Malaysian government by military coup de tat; when Lukman was arrested under ISA in 1977, he was summoned to resign, then banished overseas as persona non grata).
Some important events occurred in top secret and strictly very confidential. Even in his relationship with Anwar Ibrahim during the student days and ABIM (Islamic Youth Movement of Malaysia). Lukman was always seen in a car driven by Anwar. And, please bear in mind that Lukman';s scholarship was issued from Anwar's department (when he was Minister in the Prime Minister Department).
Why must Lukman be condemned as a traitor to the cause of independence of Patani when Amin and Shafie Baso were there together to witness the military maneuvers with Malaysian Army? For what reason Malaysia wanted to create volatile area as an economic entity? IMT-GT is totally an endeavor to deceive blind Thai leaders. The creation of IMT-GT has proven that we surrendered our sovereignty and supremacy to Indonesia and Malaysia. Now Indonesia is losing Acheh and Thailand is losing Patani (5 provinces).
Malaysia wants to create Patani as South Lebanon?
Malaysia wants to create South Thailand, the way Israel created South Lebanon, to make it a buffer state, though not an independent state. The leaders must be Malaysian puppets. With Lukman, no way for South Thailand to become a buffer state or a puppet state to Malaysia.
The signing of the Peace Agreement with BRN, Thailand has recognized the existing of this 35 years liberation front under the law of Thailand. You gave away your sovereignty and supremacy, and BRN has got its locus standi. Do you think that all BRN leaders are stupid? They returned into the homeland and mobilized their followers and supporters openly with fears of being arrested!! We have our own consolidated military, political and economic offensive and defensive agenda before and after we entered into peace accord.
We don't have to shoot a single bullet. This agreement is registered with Kota Bharu High Court. We are just waiting to submit to the United Nation, when the timing is appropriate. Under Charter 99/69 of UN Declaration On Human Right, we have rights to exist as a Malay race of South East Asia. You can mock today, but tomorrow you rub your tears.
Royal Palace also involve?
A Privy Councilor, who accompanied General Phanthep, before the signing of the peace document said to Lukman,";This peace accord is valuable and costly because it brings power, status and finally wealth. Everyone wants this but nobody who can get it, except you." From this remark we would like to make clear against that there somebody from the Royal Palace who is deeply involved with this peace initiative. General Phanthep said, during the meeting held at Khohong Camp, Hatyai, "I come on behalf of His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Thailand to offer peace to BRN under the Order of Prime Minister Department, Policy 66/23. This peace accord must persist because I promised His Majesty to present him a Peace Agreement on the 50th anniversary as Rama IX of the Kingdom of Thailand. I must bring back this peace agreement on the date of his accession to the Throne of Rama Chakry Dynasty."
This is not a joke. This is revolution and we really meant it. We want peace, for that reason we offered an olive branch to you. Don't be too stubborn on US's backing. What to back if you're penniless? The oil and gas are discovered in our areas only. The Americans will be on our side.
Malaysia's reaction after the signing
Would you like to know what was Malaysia's reaction after discovering that Lukman, persona non grata, signed Peace Agreement with General Chalermpol Chareonjin? Immediately they invited Pattani leaders to attend "a top secret and strictly very confidential meeting"; with threats if they refused to attend they would be arrested and deported back to Thailand. The coward, frightened, fearful and panicked little chicks (Patani leaders), despite of differences in ideology and crisis, entered the nets. The meeting was convened at Tasik Titiwangsa Golf Club. In the introductory remarks, the SB officers claimed that they had been ordered by PM Mahathir to invite all Pattani liberation leaders because he (PM Mahathir) had been approached by Thai government to invite Patani leaders to join a peaceful initiatives.
Who deceived whom? Was Thai government lack of sovereignty to allow Malaysia taking over the task? SB officers deceived Patani leaders as a ploy and gimmick. The meeting was held consecutively for three days commencing from 5 to 7 June 1995, just two months after the Kota Bharu Peace Agreement.
Secret leaked to Region Four Army
On 10 June 1995, a copy of the minutes of the meeting was delivered to Lukman and Lukman, gentlemanly wrote to Mahathir, sending him a mockery thank. Other copies were mailed or faxed to Region Four Army and PM Office in Bankok. Mahathir fired all the SB officers, who sold his name; and furiously Mahathir blamed Patani leaders as Thai government's agents and that the organizations they were leading were creations of Thai governments. The minutes of the meeting was signed by Semae Thanam. Semae and other PULO leaders such as Abdul Rahman and Daud Thanam were arrested and deported to face prosecutions in Thailand.
Whether our intelligence system is good or not, that's immaterial. We can easily intercept the behavior, manner, movement, planning and maneuver of our so-called "contra revolutionary or reactionary groups." Do you think our arch-rivals will not sabotage us too? Den Tohmeena and ex-leaders of BRN who had been ousted (who still claim and are claiming that they are the legitimate BRN leaders) will allow Lukman to live peacefully and safely in Patani? Or do you think that we will let Den Tohmeena to rest in peace and live happily, He can fool short-sighted General Chavalit, but he can't blindfold us. We know what is the objective or the ultimate goal of Den when he purposely invited HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to attend the opening ceremony of Haji Sulong Foundation. Where are all the funds donated or collected? A normal practice for the incorporation of the foundation, is for a rich man or a tycoon who has social obligation to help the masses; he or she forms a foundation and donates his income of proceeds from his/her business to the foundation. But, Den formed a foundation to collect the money and siphon into his own pocket for his own interests and his cronies.
Do you think that the families such Adunlabut, Dengudom, Sulaiman, Radenahmad, Hasamoh, Pipitpakdee prefer Den and Amin to administer Pattani and the other southern provinces?
Islamic Religious Council of Patani
Just imagine how the future of Patani will be after the Islamic Religious Council of Patani's election? Recently, on 18 November 1999, all who won the posts were former BRN's hard-cores and Den had been elected to be Kamakan Klang (of the Islamic Committee). This is to say that the uneducated (in Islamic studies and principles) guy or a blind is allowed to be a king among the semi-blinds. Den controls the whole 500 mosque, and more than 10,000 committee members by blindfolding them; he controlled a wholly-owned Maahad Darul Maarif (a school under the management of Islamic Religious Council of Patani); Saving Cooperative of Pattani Ltd. (a financing institution with hundred of millions assets); and finally Islamic scholars who control some religious schools such as Mokhtar Waba, Abdul Latiff Matnor, and many others. Who is behind Den? Amin Tohmeena, his brother who still claimed to be legitimate BRN's President even though he had been ousted many years ago during the serious leadership crisis in BRN. Be it Mokhtar Waba, Abdulrahman Dewa, Abdul Latif, Ahmad Lembut, Shafie Basa, etc. they are still claiming that they are the legitimate BRN members. Mohktar and Abdulrahman Dewa are architects for their so-called BRN's Islamic Religious Council of Patanis election.
We are providing you with our earlier notice. Whether your government prefers Balkanization or Thai-styled autonomy? Balkanization means Amin, autonomy means Lukman.
PEACE PLAN OF BRN
Lukman is prepared to administer Patani and the other four southern-most provinces based on his PEACE PLAN which had been submitted to Privy Council of Thailand, National Security Council, PM Department and Region Four Army of Thailand. The Peace Plan was comprehensively designed in conjunction with the Peace Negotiation Agreement duly signed by BRN and Region Four Army in Kota Bharu, Kelantan State, Malaysia dated 8 April 1995.
Prior to this, dated 28 April 1992, Lukman-led PKRRP, a radical military wing of BRN, signed a preliminary peace pact with Region Four Army. PKRRP was represented by BRN field commander, Cikgu Bakar (or Beraheng Yakyerit) and Colonel Arkhanit Mensawat, Intelligence Chief of Region Four Army. This agreement is known as Five Points Resolution. Among the triggering points to be resolved is 22-point Demand as prime factor to resolve the 200 years unsolved disputes between the warring Malays and Thai government (since the date of occupation in 1785).
UN Peace Keeping for to South Thailand
Lukman doesn't have to shoot a single bullet to achieve independence or autonomy because region Four army representing His Majesty and Thai government, had entered into two (2) peace treaties with Lukman-led PKRRP and BRN. If he lodged a report to the United Nations on violation of the peace agreement, the next day UN Peace Keeping Force entered Southern Thailand. This is not a gimmick or a political ploy. We, BRN, being a champion and progressive liberation force know what we are doing and with whom we are dealing. A sovereign government equipped with machinery such as CIB (CIA's little sister), Prime Minister and his cabinet, Privy Council, National Security Council, Military and Police Intelligence can't repeat the same mistake when dealing with internal securities.
Lukman has committed and devout his times and efforts for the peace accord. His strategy is to return into the homeland and organize his network for the taking over and administration of the five Southern Border Provinces of Thailand. He will not allow Amin's political dogma and thirsty for anarchy survive in Patani. The efforts had been halted by conspiracies and sabotages by his arch-rivals such as Den and his brother's (Amin) political wing known as Wahdah Movement. They instigated the top officials and created rumors that Lukman is planning a consolidated military offensive maneuver against the Thai authorities.
In 1995, after his release from draconian and cruel ISA jail in Malaysia, Lukman returned to Pattani. While he was in Yala, Colonel Charint Amonkeaw had an audience with him. Colonel Charint (from PTT 3) received reports that Lukman was planning to attack Camp Sirindhorn. Luckily the reports were lodged to Charint who knew his attitude very well. This happened in early 1995, after the signing of first agreement and prior to the signing of the second peace agreement.
Lukman wants to create disorder and unrest?
In 1996 when Lukman started operating his ferry service from Satun Province to Langkawi Island (Malaysia), reports had been lodged at Satun Police HQ that Lukman was planning to create unrest by waging urban guerrilla warfare in Southern Provinces. Fortunately his cousin was serving as SB officer there. The reports seemed ridiculous and unreasonable. Later firearms and ammunitions had been confiscated in Satun, rumors spread that Lukman was really to go for war against Thai authorities. But, the real fact was that the confiscated arms and ammunitions were on the way to a destination across the ocean - to the rebellious Aceh Province in Indonesia. Earlier, a bomb exploded in Hatyai killing Shukri Langchit (cousin to former MP, Vithoon Langchit of Satun) and Mohammad Bilanglud. Rumors spread that it was Lukman's job. Police Lt. Colonel Pichet Kaso (who married Lukman's cousin - grand daughter of Datuk Che Lah Langputeh, former MP and Chief Kadi from Satun) from Region 9 Police, called Lukman by his mobile-phone. Reports said Lukman was seen in Satun prior to the explosion. The real fact was that Lukman was introduced by Pichet Kaso to Police Lt. General Michai Nukhunkit, Region 9 Police Chief).
We don't have to elaborate how Lukman intercepted Lt. General Michai via his cousin's husband, that later led to the initiatives to arrest of Semae Thanam, PULO field commander. Upon request from Lt. Colonel Pichet, Lukman appealed to Semae Thanam to stop hostile activities in Patani, but the deaf Semae rejected his request. Lukman pulled out from Michai's theory to arrest Semae red-handed. Semae, later stage had been arrested by Malaysian police upon the request of Lt. Colonel Pichet and Lt. General Michai; and then deported to Thailand to face prosecutions and death penalty in Thailand.
Closing the ferry service and hotel operation
In 1998, after the economic turmoil and the closure of his ferry service and RCI affiliated hotel and resort (in Langkawi), Lukman jumped to Bangkok and became Director of an American investment bank and business trust (this corporation is said to have an asset worst US$ 20 billion. Lukman stayed in prestigious hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Hatyai. While in Bangkok, reports had been lodged to SB Chief that Lukman was planning very big acts of aggression in Thailand. The SB Chief then consulted a member of Privy Council, as he knew that Lukman was under his protection. Lukman was summoned by the member of the Royal Palace for clarification. He denied the reports as misleading and baseless.
Recently, in 1999 when he was in Yala, reports were lodged to Thai authorities that Lukman was planning for total war of liberation. He was seen everywhere in the rural areas, instigating the people to revolt, following steps of the Timorese and Acenese (in Indonesia).
Who are the real culprits or elements that try to create gruesome scenarios in Patani? Why they are afraid of their own shadows and images?
Lukman as a freedom fighter
Lukman has for a long time being known as a real freedom fighter of Patani rather than Amin. Lukman, while serving as Amin's secretary (on his capacity as President of BRN) was also a college lecturer. He was not only teaching at Thamwitya Mulniti, but also at Maahad Darul Maarif (an Islamic College wholly-owned by Islamic Religious Council of Patani), Mahadil Ulum (controlled by Abdul Latif - Amin's arch-rival turned-royalist). He was also a visiting lecturer to a few more Islamic religious schools. Lukman did serve as Amin's secretary at Islamic Religious Council of Patani when Amin was its Chairman; and Den at that time was only an appointed secretary of the council.
Don't forget that Lukman was assigned by Amin and Supreme Command Council of BRN to lead a destructive urban guerrilla force known as GURBAN or Urban Guerrilla Brigade. Who were they (SCC members)? They were Den Tohmeena (NAP MP), Mokhtar Waba (a Senator), Shafie Basa (Principal of Thamwitya Mulniti), Ahmad Lembut (Pricipal of Maahad Darul Maarif), Abdul Latif Matnor (Owner of Mahadil Ulum, Rhusembilan), Kadir Mayor (landed in jailed for 20 years), Abdullah Krisek (died in Thai security prison while serving 20 years jail sentence), Ahmad Samuddin (shot dead by Lukman's KOGAP), Zakaria Zali (slain by Lukman's UGB), Ahmad Majid (owner of another religious school in Naphradu), Abdulrahman Ahmad (known as Tok Pombeng), Ahmad Yankee (Amin's cousin residing in Malaysia). Lukman commanded at least 600 destructive members of UGB. Lukman trained and commanded at least 600 members of UGB comprised of his students from all over the colleges or schools he taught. They were partially trained in Cerang Tadung after the surrender of Kru Pok Su or Kru Mat Iso in 1975, and partially trained in the dense jungle by Cikgu Peng (Rusok Buraso) and Cikgu Bakar (Beraheng Yakyerit) and Cikgu Ding (late Deputy Commander of ABRIP). Almost half of the students proceeded to further their studies in Algeria, Libya, Saudi and scattered in the Arab world.
When they returned to the homeland, they had been infiltrated everywhere pretending to be his arch-rival loyalists.
Lukman is not an ordinary man. Compared to Amin, Amin is just a little shit. He carried big banner because his father was slain by Bunlert Lertpreecha (retired Lt. General Police), whom Amin and Den claimed responsible for their father's death. They had been cheating public to believe that his father died as a martyr for the cause of Patani independence and Islamic struggle. He siphoned BRN fund (collected from donations, ransoms and protection funds) and fled to stay in self-imposed exiled by claiming that he was on the arrest and murder list of Thai authorities. He had committed crimes and instructed assassinations on his arch-rivals such as Nik Sid, who intent to challenge him for chairmanship post in the Islamic Religious Council of Pattani. He had committed the worst crimes and destruction against His Majesty the King and the Kingdom.
The Commander rejected Lukman?
Why didn't Commander say to Lukman, "Hey, I want to sign a peace pact with Amin Tohmeena, not you!" Same mistakes couldn't be repeatedly made by any human being in the world.
Lukman in Bangkok
Do you want to know where was Lukman after the signing of 8th April 1995's Peace Agreement? He came to Bangkok and then resided at Golden Horse Hotel in Sanam Luang for more than one month, discussing and then designed the comprehensively well-known BRN Peace Plan with Raj Ongkaraj (we don't have to name him here) and King's Private Secretary. In 1996, Lukman was seen at a ceremony attended by Malaysian's Ambassador to Thailand and Deputy Prime Minister, Air Chief Marshall Somboon Rahong. The giant project was duly signed between Mr. Somboon's group and the Malaysia's group (believe to be former Deputy Prime Minister's group - Anwar's group). The project failed to take off due to the defeat of Banharn's government at the end of 1996. When General Chavalit came up into power, Lukman was already in Satun, operating his ferry and hotel business in Langkawi Island and Satun Province. The hotel he operated was said to be four star hotel affiliated to RCI USA. So what to dispute? He was Secretary General of Islamic Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Malaysia and therefore knows business better than us. While in Langkawi Island, Lukman was seen in a ceremony attended by PM Mahathir and Mohamamed Alfayez (father of late Doddy Alfayez).
After the economic typhoon hit this region, Lukman jumped to Bangkok, close all his businesses in Satun and Langkawi. Again in early 1998 he was seen driving prestigious Mercedes Benz S 500 with securities and bodyguards. He set up two offices in Bangkok - one infront of The Emerald Hotel, along Rachadapisek Road and the other one in Ladphrao. Lukman became director and shareholders of an American investment bank in Thailand.
In your article, it did mention that Lukman was a staunch critic of PM Mahathir Mohamad. What is meant by "critic" if he is not a threat to Mahathir? On the date of his release from ISA jail by Penang High Court, Lukman prepared 7-page Press Statement (the message was delivered to Lukman that he would be released formally by the High Court 12 hours prior to the time he would be taken out from the prison cell - so he typed the 7-page Press Statement) and circulated it to the press after his release. None of the press was willing to release the statement. Among the contents were remarks made by him that Mahathir was too old and therefore must quit from the premiership, and Anwar Ibrahim should take over as a new PM and then pronounce the abolishment of ISA.
Studied law while in detention
Lukman is a man with strong dedications and determinations. While in detention, he studied. He sat for various examinations and educational courses by post (external/extension program). He took courses from Mara University of Technology and National University of Indonesia. He studied Chinese Language and can write and read good Mandarin (National Language of China), University of London and Ohio University and University of Cambridge. He wrote books while in detention. One of his novels had been selected as top-10 in the Malaysia National Novel Award 1993 beating hundreds of veteran writers, professors and lecturers. His novel was selected to win 2nd Award, but vetoed by the Special Branch. No publicity is to be given to this "dangerous man".
Jail as a twinning university
He told the arresting SB officers, "You put me in the jail, I'll turn my jail's cell as my twin university. If you keep me longer, then when I walk out from the jail, I'm already a lawyer." He studied law from University of London by post (off campus course), and then sued Malaysian Government for holding him unlawfully in the eyes of law. Nobody believed that he could win the case. In the legal term, he instituted a criminal proceeding against Malaysian Government under Writ of Habeas Corpus. ISA can't be challenged and disputed in any Court of Justice, but why did the presiding Senior Judge give judgement on his favor? Technically there were nine discovered reasons to be ruled out as "unlawful detention". (1) The Detention Order was signed by Deputy Interior Minister, which he was not being conferred power by the Parliament to do so. (2) The Detention Orders were printed in 1981 when the ministerial portfolio was known as Ministry of Home Affairs. When Mahathir became Prime Minister, he changed it to Home Ministry and Home Minister - not Minister of Home Affairs. On the printed form (Detention Order, hard cover just like a degree) it was written as Minister of Home Affairs. Therefore there was no legal entity on its existence.
Though studied English law, Lukman made comparison with Malaysian law referring to a case where Kuala Lumpur High Court lost its legal entity when Parliament passed Federal Territory Bill (1979) by carving Kuala Lumpur City out from Selangor State. The approved Bill had changed Kuala Lumpur High Court to Federal Territory High Court, but the charges, prosecutions and judgements (sentences) were made in the name of Kuala Lumpur High Court, which was not in existence. Some victims had been sentence to death. There was one victim who appealed against the sentence to the Supreme Court. The Lord President, Raja Adlan Shah (later became Sultan of Perak State and King of Malaysia), presided over the appeal. He then discovered that Kuala Lumpur High Court was not in existence and therefore has no jurisdiction to pass any sentence or judgement. The Bill was brought back to Parliament for repeal, and then passed anonymously. Kuala Lumpur High Court came back into existence.
That showed the totally abuse of powers by the authorities especially the Special Branch - the law enforcement officers. Other technical errors discovered were the negligence or recklessness by the authorities, including (3) typing on the hard copy the word "Deputy" in front of Minister of Home Affairs [gazetted forms can't be copied or deleted or templated] (4) Pressing seal bearing the name of Home Minister of Malaysia. (5) No reason or allegation given for the detention (on the same detention Order), but separately written on the other piece of paper duly signed by Chief Secretary of Home Ministry, which is unlawful. (6) In the Extension Order (continued detention for another two years), no specific reasons given, and the errors were the same as (1), (2), (3) and (4).
So Lukman won the case. The ISA case can't be challenged and disputed in any court of justice. So why he won the case? He sued the Government based on the oldest binding precedent law of Habeas Corpus, introduced by the British in the Straits Settlement (Penang, Malacca and Singapore). Habeas Corpus law was introduced in England in 1635 and brought to Penang in 1802 by the British. Judge-made law is binding the lower court in hierarchy, and it is as strong as the law or Bill passed by Parliament. Parliament said ISA can't be challenged, but the binding precedent (Habeas Corpus - deprivation of freedom) clearly stated "must be reasonable and beyond reasonable doubts".
His case became a law reference?
There are two main clauses in Federal Constitution (Malaysia). Article 5 - No citizen of this country is to be deprived of his/her freedom without any reasonable ground; and Article 21 - Any law, if contradict to Federal Constitution becomes null and void (though passed by Parliament). So the draconian Internal Security Act (ISA) is in fact an unlawful law in Malaysia, but the Government of the day (in power) still abused its power.
His case has been used as reference to law students in the ISA cases in Malaysia. He was the first ISA victim who had been released successfully without subject to be re-arrested.
Now, the term as "prima facie" is non-applicable for the Law of Evidence. It must be based on "beyond reasonable doubt". That's the new ruling from Supreme Court of Malaysia.
Lukman Sued government of Malaysia
He filed suit for Claim of Damages for the unlawful detention. How much we don't know. But, the Government in power will not bow to anybody, especially people like Lukman who always act prejudicial to the Security of Malaysia in all aspects. He joined a rebellion with the Young Turks of Malaysia Army to overthrow Malaysian Government by revolution (unconstitutional mean). After the release, he siphoned Malaysian Government scholarship to continue his study in London and Toronto. On one foot, he stepped on UMNO (the ruling party of Malaysia), sitting in the camp to oust Mahathir Mohamad (democratic dictator on the earth) and the other foot, he aligned with the opposition Islamic Party of Malaysia (PAS) to topple the ruling UMNO in the northern states of Kelantan, Trengganu, Perlis, Kedah, Perak and Penang. That is Lukman.
On the other image, he is a revolutionary from a tiny Patani Province of the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand. Fearing of his influence to enter into peace agreement, Malaysian government jailed him. When he walked out from his prison cell, he signed a peace negotiation settlement agreement with Region Four Army. The signing shocked everybody in Mahathir's Home Ministry especially the Special Branch. So they sabotaged by inviting other coward and false Patani leaders that Thai authorities had sought Malaysia's favor to invite them to a round table conference. When the secret leaked out, Malaysia was very disappointed. They were arrested and deported to Thailand. The rest fled overseas.
Challenging the exile leaders Lukman did challenge them. "Let's go back and fight!" They refused. "Let's enter into peace!" They rejected. So what do they want? They cheat the people of Malaysia (and foreign countries) to believe that they are the real freedom fighters of Patani, and that they have been oppressed. They are opportunists and take advantages for their own personal interests. They want to come back as Presidents of a tiny little state or empire, as they called it. Two or three of them formed a political party or organization. They use little money to print letterheads and rubber-stamps (seals) and publish in the foreign news that their party or organization has so many thousands supporters. Semae Thanam, is one of the examples, claimed to have thousands of freedom fighters. After he was arrested, where were his supporters? Amin claimed to have many supporters. Where are they? They hide under the banner of NAP's flag. They are opportunists.
Lukman didn't claim to have many boys, but when he was arrested by Malaysia's secret police in 1977, his UGB hijacked a Malaysian plane and detonated to ashes killing all 107 passengers and crew members. They refused to fight. When Lukman's guerrillas launch a bomb attack, and then remain silence; PULO starts claiming that they are responsible. The next day, Lukman's boys launch another bomb attack with PULO's letterhead.
Go and ask Nasir Banniang (PULO urban guerrilla chief who joined Lukman's PKRRP). How many bombs he detonated? Only three bombs! But, Thai police claimed that Nasir instructed 10 bombings.
Lukman meet Cikgu Ping 7 days before the signing of peace agreement
Seven nights, prior to the signing of 8th April 1995 Peace Agreement, Lukman was talking and discussing matters pertaining to the peace accord with Cikgu Ping (Rozak Burasoh) convened at Mariam's house in Green Wood Park, Kuala Lumpur. (Mariam is Rozak's ex-wife). Four people were there in the house - Lukman, Rozak, Lukman's wife (Hamidah, cousin to Mariam) and Mariam. The ladies were not present in the four-eyes meeting.
Without any secret mutual understanding, do you think Lukman will enter into peace agreement with Region Four Army? There are secrets behind the secrets. Or do you think that Lukman will bring Cikgu Ping back into Thailand? You must remember that Cikgu Ping who refused to obey orders from the ruling Supreme Council of BRN in 1977. What Cikgu Ping said, "I don't know who's the President of BRN. I don't know who're members of Supreme Council. But, I know you personally and you're a real freedom fighter. Today, if you declare that you're the President of BRN, I recognize you." From there the revolution or rebellion to topple Amin and the rest of Supreme Council members started.
Lt. General Michai Nakhunkit saught his assistant to bring Cikgu Ping to prosecution, Lukman instead pointed to Semae Thanam. He took Major General Anand and Police Colonel Pichet Kaso to the site where Semae was operating a Thai Food Restaurant in Keramat District, Kuala Lumpur. Lukman will not allowed Cikgu Ping being brought for prosecution or surrender. Lukman has, his own offensive and defensive strategy. What Lukman said, "Nobody kills his own barking dogs, though the dog is mad". Professor said?
The signing of Peace Agreement, as what Professor Thavorn (Law Lecturer of Prince of Songkhla University, Hatyai Campus) elaborated "The agreement between Region Four Army and BRN is legal and binding." And what Lukman said, "We gained locus standi and status quo (legal entity) after waging 35-year war of liberation." The agreement was signed on Malaysia's soil and is therefore binding and recognized by the Commonwealth countries. What a lawyer said, "In Malaysia, if you sign agreement of sale and purchase of cow-dung, it's still binding the parties (to the agreement)."
Mindanao 20 years?
Nur Misuari took 20 years (after the signing of Tripoli Peace Agreement) to return as Governor of Mindanao Autonomous Region. He signed the agreement in 1974 and returned as Governor in 1994. Yassir Arafat signed a peace pact with Israel, he then returned to Palestine as an autonomous leader.
What is different with Lukman. In 1992, his PKRRP signed a peace pact with Region Four Army at Kuala Lumpur Hilton International. In 1995, Lukman led BRN's delegation to sign a peace pact with Region Four Army at Kota Bharu Hotel Perdana (in Kelantan State of Malaysia).
Whatever speculation about Region Four Intelligence, we don't dispute. The Intelligence Chief of Region Four Army is still Colonel Arkhanit Mensawat, the gentleman who entered into peace treaty with Cikgu Bakar, PKRRP's Commander. PKRRP is the radical military wing of BRN, which is absolutely under Lukman's control.
The "good boy" Arkhanit puts his eyes everywhere on Lukman's whereabouts. When Lukman was in a function with Police Lt. General Michai, Arkhanit was present at a few distant laps from Lukman. Lukman knew, but never bother. When Lukman met Yala Police Chief, Colonel Charint (PTT3) was a few yards away from him (at Rama Hotel Yala).
Lukman enjoys PTT3 benefits? Do you believe if we tell you that Lukman was in a function/reception with HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn when she visited Pattani on 5th February 2000? Lt. General Narong Deng-udom (Commander of Region Four Army) and Colonel Arkhanit were also present. But, Arkhanit was not aware that Lukman was there at the same spot. If you don't believe, check with Provincial Police SB of Pattani. A police sergeant major was standing on Lukman's left.
Do you believe if we say that Lukman sometimes stayed at Changli Hotel Yala, and the bills were paid by PTT3? Do you believe that Lukman was on many ocassions, met Region Nine Police Chief? He might be meeting a minister, but coincide with the appearance of Region Nine Police Chief.
Meeting VIPs
You may be meeting VIPs in your own way. Lukman has his own credibility and capability of meeting VIPs via his own way. He met Raj Ongkaraj in his own way. He never salute, except to provide Swasdee to him in a polite way as a devout Muslim. We never have a chance to become a ferry or vessel (ship) operator or having a yacht, but Lukman experienced life as its operator. He, at one time, owned a hotel & resort situated on a 10 acres land at the resort island of Langkawi. The four-star hotel was affiliated to Resort & Condominium International of USA. He traveled in a six-door Volvo limousine, chauffeur's driven and bodyguards. He lived like a Mafia boss. When he crossed the border, he had his own Mercedes S 500, armed bodyguards and drivers. In Kuala Lumpur, he was seen driving prestigious Honda Accord bearing Thai-plated numbers. Sometimes the car was seen driven by his son at the university. He had his owned BMW 735I series in Kuala Lumpur.
Travels with Den Tohmeena
Sometimes he traveled on the same aircraft with Den Tohmeena, but never usher a single word to his former mentor. Sometimes, Den saw him at the airport, accompanied by a Kamnan, carrying Lukman's briefcase. What is funny? Nothing. Kamnan Sabit of Nathawi (Songkhla - former MP) and Kamnan Donli of Chana at their favor to carry his briefcase. Khun Virat Wisikapong, is his good friend too. Vithoon Langchit of Satun, is his distant cousin.
Lukman was seen at the launching ceremony of Peace Party at Ambassador Hotel, Shukumvit Road (1998). Dr. Amnoy Suwankitburikan offered him as a committee member and one of his deputies. Lukman rejected, but promised to gauge supports to that party. Leaders such Chalerm Lohmud, Kariya Lohmud, Sombat, etc. know him personally.
Rayong's wife?
Do you believe if we tell you that Lukman has another wife from Amphoe Muang, Rayong Province? The wife's relatives are among successful businessman in Rayong operating hotels, transport business, etc. For that reason, Lukman was seen in a function with Kamnan Poh of Pattaya. Don't forget that most of Kamnan Poh's gunmen are from South Thailand.
Lukman was seen residing at Royal Palace Hotel and Royal Twin Palace Hotel (Pattaya) for months in 1998. He has an apartment at Milford Paradise, Ban Chang, Rayong. He was also seen accomodating at Holiday Inn, Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Royal Princess (Sanam Luang), Milford Golf & Resort (Hua Hin), JB Hotel (Hatyai), Patong Tower (Phuket) Muang Thai Golf & Resort (Phanga).
Sometimes, Lukman was seen alone boarding a city bus in Bangkok, taking an ordinary train, traveled by tuk-tuk. Sometimes, he was seen carrying a notebook (portable computer), complete with internet-fixed modem.
On some occasions his changed his modus operandi. He traveled in a chauffeur's driven car, but the chauffeur was a Thai policeman.
Back in the south, many people scared of him, including Den Tohmeena. He has a wife from a village known as Pulau Gasing, Moo 4, Kolam Sub-district, Yarang District. Pulau Gasing, until now is known as "black area". Those days, boys from this vicinity were rejected (by Thai Army) to join the compulsory military service. Until now, it is believed to have more than 100 M16 illegal assault weapons. Lying just 2 km away from Patani-Yala main road, the people of this village retaliated the Thai military and the police operations in the areas.
Lukman as a member of Khanak Phatiwat?
Some circles said that Lukman is a member of what is known as "Khanak Phatiwat". He attended the secret meetings when he felt convenience. He was seen in a function with some top-guns (Generals) in Bangkok.
Some people may ask question, "Who is Lukman compared to Den. Is Lukman a minister or a man with integrity equivalent to Den?" That's what the Acenese ministers in President Wahid's cabinet questioned the exiled Aceh leaders.
We would like to question back, "Who was Den 25 years ago?" He was a real damned-shit, a poor lawyer. He was picked up to contest the 1976's election (after the longest demonstration held in Patani) as a Democrat Party candidate. His career developed from there. If Lukman rejected the candidacy of Den, he won't be able to be popular until now.
Don't forget that Lukman is a military officer don't forget that Lukman received military training in what was known as Reserve Officer Training Unit (ROTU) while at the Mara University of Technology (Malaysia). He graduated from the school of Public Administration and therefore fit to become a District Officer or a Governor. He studied Political Sciences from an Indonesian university. He studied Business Administration from Toronto University and qualified in law from London University.
He, like the Israel leaders, comes from military background. He knows how to shoot, ambush, fight, retreat and silence. He can command, lead and gave orders. Ideologically he is an indoctrinator. After his indoctrination, his followers will start fighting or detonate a bomb.
Cikgu Ping was in the dense jungle, then how he met Cikgu Ping? Was it possible for Cikgu Ping to come out and see him in towns? The answer is no. Lukman entered the jungle. When he reached the guerrillas' camp, he was not a civilian but wearing a combat suit as their commander too. His rank in the urban guerrillas was equivalent to Cikgu Ping. Urban guerrillas were trained in the dense jungle by Cikgu Bakar, late Cikgu Ding and Cikgu Ping. They knew his urban strength. The jungle guerrillas were not well-educated, but the urban guerrillas were well-educated. Many of them had continued their education overseas. That is the fact.
Lukman is scared by everybody - friends, foes and relatives. He is not an outspoken. He didn't talk much. Now he doesn't carry a gun or an explosive when he travels. His boys yes. He can blow anybody's head, if he gives a proper command. He can blow Den Tohmeena to pieces, if he wants to. He wants peace despite of hostilities and brutalities done to him by both Thai authorities and Den's group.
Released by:
Information Department,
PATANI MALAY NATIONAL REVOLUTIONARY FRONT (BRN)
15 FEBRUARY 2000
