Sa kaeo: Crowds gathered to support frontline soldiers at Ban Nong Chan ahead of tomorrow’s deadline for Cambodia to vacate Thai territory. The Royal Thai Army is preparing to enforce this deadline under humanitarian principles and international rules.
According to Thai News Agency, with just one day left until the evacuation deadline for Cambodians in the disputed area, Ban Nong Jan in Nong Ya Kaeo, Sa Kaeo Province, saw a notable absence of Cambodian activity, especially among protesters who previously confronted the Thai military. Today, the scene was quiet, with only Thai citizens from regions such as Sa Kaeo, Chiang Mai, Prachin Buri, and Bangkok coming to support soldiers at key locations under close surveillance by both sides. Many expressed a desire to witness the unfolding events firsthand, hoping for a peaceful resolution despite the potential for conflict. Nonetheless, local residents believe that Cambodia might not comply with the deadline.
In Ban Chamrak, Mr. Anont Waiyakul, the headman of Chamrak subdistrict, reported that villagers from Chamrak and other bordering subdistricts are unified in their stance that tomorrow marks the deadline for Cambodia to vacate the disputed area. They insist that all Cambodians should be removed from Thai territory and are prepared to evacuate if a clash occurs, with bomb shelters already in place. They urge the Thai military to take decisive action to resolve the situation, thereby alleviating daily concerns.
Meanwhile, the First Army Region has issued an urgent communication to Cambodia, announcing plans to clear mines in Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo starting tomorrow. This follows an agreement at an extraordinary GBC meeting in Koh Kong, Cambodia, on September 10th, where both sides consented to demining for public safety. The Thai military seeks Cambodian cooperation in this operation, while ensuring that the Thai public understands the necessity of notifying Cambodia to prevent any misinformation.
Moreover, the Burapha Task Force and other military units are fully prepared for any developments, with the First Army Region poised to respond decisively to any sovereignty violations, considering both tactical success and civilian safety. The First Army Region is committed to supporting the local population through the ongoing crisis.
Army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvari stressed that the issue of Cambodian encroachment on Thai sovereignty must be addressed. Despite efforts to resolve matters peacefully and in line with international standards, Cambodia has remained unresponsive and has distorted information. They’ve allegedly incited protests, using vulnerable groups as shields and portraying themselves as victims while attacking Thai officials. The Thai government, Ministry of Defense, and National Security Council have instructed the military to implement measures to counter these actions, enforcing the law in accordance with international standards. Military commanders have approved the use of various legal frameworks, including the Forestry Act and the Immigration Act, alongside Martial Law, to ensure a comprehensive and appropriate response to the situation.