Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior has confirmed its preparedness to evacuate individuals residing along the Thai-Cambodian border, emphasizing that recent fatalities were not due to delays, but occurred during the evacuation process itself.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, addressed the situation following clashes on the border that resulted in injuries and deaths. He stated that provincial governors in Surin, Sisaket, and Buriram have been instructed to evacuate residents immediately, particularly from districts like Phanom Dong Rak, which lies close to the border, to safer areas such as Prasat District.

Residents who remain in the affected areas have been advised to stay in bunkers prepared by district officials. Medical units and nurses are on standby to assist, and makeshift kitchens have been set up to support evacuees. Mr. Sampantharat has directed provincial governors, administrative officials, and village headmen to ensure the safety and well-being of those in the rear areas, urging people to move away from the border to inner regions. This directive follows orders from Mr. Phumtham Vejchai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, who is currently acting as the Prime Minister, amid escalating tensions.

Mr. Arsit further clarified that the fatalities were not due to evacuation delays or reluctance to evacuate, but occurred during the evacuation process. He reiterated the Ministry of Interior’s readiness to evacuate people from risk areas. Additionally, provinces such as Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat have been instructed to closely monitor the situation and enforce immediate evacuations with stringent measures in place.