Surin: The Deputy Minister of Defence visited Surin Province to promote the "Running Water, Electricity, Good Roads, and Mobile Phone Signal" project, enhancing the capabilities of border personnel.
According to Thai News Agency, on February 5, 2026, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Deputy Minister of Defence, alongside an AIS delegation, traveled to Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. The visit aimed to follow up on and support the "Running Water, Lights, Good Roads, and Mobile Phone Signal" project, a significant initiative by the Ministry of Defence to upgrade infrastructure and bolster the capabilities of border patrol personnel.
During the visit, Lieutenant General Adul and his team distributed AIS SIM cards to personnel in the Suranaree Task Force, 2nd Army Area, to enhance communication, coordination, and command in border operations. Major General Somphop Pharawech, Commander of the Suranaree Task Force, officially received the donation, with Mr. Wisarut Phisal, Head of Regional Operations for the Northeast region at AIS, also present to support operations in the area.
The Deputy Minister's itinerary included a visit to the home of Mr. Sutin Sukhsriden, a civilian affected by local clashes, to provide morale-boosting supplies and inspect ongoing operations. The delegation also visited several key locations, including Prasat Ta Kwai and Hills 206 and 350 in Phanom Dong Rak District.
Lieutenant General Adul highlighted the importance of the projects, noting that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also Minister of Interior, and General Natthaphol Nakpanich, Minister of Defence, tasked him with overseeing improvements to the quality of life for troops stationed along the border. He emphasized that these enhancements, including better roads, electricity, telephone signals, and water resources, are crucial for the operational readiness and welfare of the armed forces stationed in these areas.
Addressing compensation for civilians affected by clashes, Lt. Gen. Adul explained that while the Prime Minister had brought this up in the last Cabinet meeting, the current status as a caretaker government necessitates consultation with the Election Commission (EC), which may cause delays. He expressed confidence that once a new government is formed post-election, the EC would approve the Cabinet's resolution for compensation, including tools and housing support for those affected.