Bangkok: Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense and Director of the Center for Special Operations in the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Administration (CSOPA), has urged the public to understand the government’s procedural approach amidst the ongoing tensions with Cambodia over alleged new mine placements.
According to Thai News Agency, Gen. Nattapol highlighted that the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) is preparing to present a lawsuit against Cambodia to the Ottawa Committee. The lawsuit accuses Cambodia of laying new mines, a violation that could lead to member countries reconsidering their financial support for Cambodia’s mine clearance efforts. Gen. Nattapol emphasized the importance of procedure, noting that premature statements could lead to misinformation. He pointed out that while Samdech Hun Sen and Mr. Hun Manet have been quick to share updates on social media, Thailand is taking a more cautious approach to maintain moral and factual integrity.
The bombing incident at Chong Bok has been under surveillance since its occurrence on July 16, with the 2nd Army and Suranaree Task Force conducting thorough investigations. Their findings revealed the placement of Russian PMN 2 anti-personnel mines, which Thailand has never utilized. The mines, found covered in weeds and made of non-rusting metal, suggest recent placement, further implicating external involvement. Despite these findings, investigations continue to ensure comprehensive coverage and accurate reporting.
Gen. Nattapol stressed the need for thorough evidence preparation ahead of the Ottawa Committee meetings scheduled for November and December. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is set to review all reports, with emphasis placed on safeguarding injured soldiers’ welfare and addressing public concern over the perceived slow response.
As discussions on potential countermeasures against Cambodia unfold, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is tasked with filing the official lawsuit. While the specifics of the Ottawa Committee’s potential penalties remain undetermined, Gen. Nattapol affirmed Cambodia’s violation of Ottawa agreement standards. The Thai government plans to protest these actions and inform countries financially supporting Cambodia’s mine clearance efforts.
Gen. Nattapol also addressed the broader implications of the mine issue on regional relations and territorial sovereignty. He pointed out that any territorial claims by Cambodia should be addressed through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism. In light of recent provocations, measures are being contemplated to ensure the safety and cooperation along the Thai-Cambodian border, especially in tourism-sensitive areas like the Ta Muen Thom temple.
The ongoing situation underscores the delicate balance of maintaining procedural integrity while addressing regional security concerns, as Gen. Nattapol continues to advocate for patience and understanding from the public and media.