BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s military ruler has apologized for suggesting that foreigners visiting the country’s *****-famous beaches would be unsafe wearing bikinis after two British tourists were ****** this week.

The bodies of the man and woman were found bludgeoned on the scenic resort island of Koh Tao on Monday, dealing another blow to a tourist industry which has been struggling to recover since the army seized power in May.

Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha’s comments triggered an uproar and one British tabloid accused him of “Smearing … Britons ******** in Paradise.”

Prayuth said Thursday he didn’t mean to criticize anyone and said the country was safe for tourists.

The killings remain unsolved and no arrests have been made.