Bangkok: The Thai government has unveiled new evidence showing that Cambodian soldiers have planted bombs along the Thai-Cambodian border, violating a peace declaration. In response, Thailand has decided to suspend the implementation of the peace plan but will urgently proceed with bomb disposal efforts in 13 areas.

According to Thai News Agency, a press conference was held by key Thai officials, including Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Government Spokesperson, and Rear Admiral Surasan Kongsiri, Ministry of Defense Spokesperson. They were joined by representatives from the Ministries of Commerce and Foreign Affairs to address the border situation and trade negotiations. Mr. Siripong emphasized that despite the recent incidents, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is committed to continuing trade in line with Thailand’s sovereignty.

Rear Admiral Surasan provided details on the mine clearance operations, citing seven incidents between July 16th and November 10th that resulted in 20 injuries. He presented evidence suggesting Cambodian forces have been re-planting mines, noting that the mines found were newly placed in clusters, consistent with previous Cambodian tactics. Thailand, adhering to the Ottawa Convention, has no stockpiles of anti-personnel mines, indicating that the mines do not belong to Thailand. The Royal Thai Army’s National Mine Action Center aims to clear remaining mines across 64 areas, but operations have been obstructed by Cambodian forces 16 times.

Video evidence from the Institute of Forensic Science supports Thailand’s claims, showing footage from Cambodian mobile phones indicating the planting of mines. Rear Admiral Surasan stated that the continuation of demining operations in 13 key areas is a priority, despite Cambodian interference, to ensure the safety of Thai citizens.

The Thai military has confirmed its commitment to defending its sovereignty and will release prisoners of war only when Cambodian hostility ceases.