Bangkok: "Big Lek" (General Apirat Kongsompong), a high-ranking military officer, has strongly criticized Cambodian soldiers for their lack of discipline and the burning of forests along the Thai-Cambodian border. His concerns highlight the potential risk of escalating conflict between the two nations.

According to Thai News Agency, General Apirat made a direct call to "Tea Sreyha" (Cambodian military commander) to address his grievances, accusing Cambodian soldiers of undisciplined behavior and the false accusation of Thai troops. He underscored the need for a permanent fence between Ban Khlong Luek and Thmodaw to prevent further incidents.

General Natthaphol Nakpanich, the Minister of Defence, in an interview following the Defence Council meeting, stated that the issue of forest fires was not discussed in the meeting. However, he has been actively monitoring the situation since the initial reports of burning. He has communicated with General Tea Seriha, the Cambodian Minister of Defence, to express concern over the continued practice of forest burning by Cambodian soldiers, which could lead to conflicts.

General Natthaphol also pointed out that Cambodian soldiers have been spreading false information, including accusations of Thai soldiers firing shots and injuring Cambodian personnel. He emphasized that evidence disproves these claims, and the Cambodian side has been cautioned against such actions.

Regarding border security, the Thai military is contemplating the construction of a 798-kilometer fence along the border following recent military operations. However, maintaining a permanent military presence is costly. Therefore, selective deployment of troops is being considered to ensure border security, particularly in high-traffic areas like Ban Khlong Luek in Sa Kaeo Province and Thomoda in Trat Province. The plan includes the potential addition of electronic fences and CCTV cameras.

Moreover, the development of certain areas into tourist attractions or memorial sites is being explored. Locations such as Phu Makheua in Sisaket Province and Chong An Ma and Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani Province are being considered for this purpose. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to provide livelihoods for war veterans through self-defense border villages, with support from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

General Apirat indicated that if these measures are successfully implemented, it may be possible to withdraw the troops from the border area.