Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army is preparing strict measures to push back against encroachments on Thai sovereignty in the border area of Sa Kaeo Province, in accordance with humanitarian principles and international rules. Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari addressed the ongoing Thai-Cambodian conflict in the Sa Kaeo border province, where encroachment by Cambodian communities and the construction of numerous structures encroaching on Thai sovereignty continues.
According to Thai News Agency, concrete solutions are necessary, as Cambodia has been indifferent in the past. Despite Thailand’s continuous efforts to utilize all channels, including negotiations and peaceful discussions in accordance with international standards, Cambodia has yet to receive a clear response or commitment to resolving the issue.
As an initial measure, Sa Kaeo Province and the Thai Forest Department were required to take legal action by issuing a warning letter and preparing to use law enforcement measures to address the encroachment. However, Cambodia not only failed to address the issue, but also distorted information to portray itself as a victim. They incited and organized a group of people, many of whom were not directly affected, to work with Cambodian government officials and military forces to obstruct operations and use various imitation weapons to attack Thai officials in an aggressive manner. They also used children, women, and monks as human shields to create a false image of victimhood. This is a systematic and planned action that clearly violates the nature of peaceful protests.
Regarding this situation, the government, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Security Council have resolved to instruct the military to implement legal measures to address the issue through procedural enforcement to push back against encroachments on sovereignty in accordance with international standards. The next step, following the latest resolution of the military commanders, is to approve the use of normal laws, such as the Forestry Act, the Immigration Act, and other related laws, in conjunction with the Martial Law Act of 1914, which is already in effect in border areas, to ensure effective and comprehensive action appropriate to the situation.
Meanwhile, a recent assessment of the situation reveals that the local issues are highly sensitive, as the Cambodian side is determined to use organized mass gatherings to confront Thai authorities and police, provoking Thai retaliation and distorting the international community’s perception of the situation.
The Royal Thai Army, through the First Army Area and relevant agencies, is preparing appropriate and stringent measures to enforce the law against communities encroaching on Thai sovereignty, in accordance with humanitarian principles and international regulations.