Bangkok: The Thai Army refuted Cambodia's claims regarding the planting of its flag and construction of a fence, emphasizing that the actions were within Thai sovereign territory. The army also stated that there was no evidence of arson in the Chong Chom border crossing.
According to Thai News Agency, Major General Winthai Suvari, spokesman for the Royal Thai Army, clarified the Cambodian government's protest against Thailand, which accused the Thai army of planting and raising the Thai flag within Cambodian territory, a violation of Cambodian sovereignty. Major General Winthai stated that the action did not violate or infringe upon Cambodian sovereignty in any way, as the area where the action took place was within Thailand's sovereign territory.
Regarding allegations that Thai authorities set fire to the warehouse in Chong Chom, Surin Province, which is Thai territory, the Royal Thai Army stated that investigations and coordination with local agencies revealed no evidence or facts indicating arson. The incident was merely a fire in an uninhabited, abandoned area and did not cause any serious damage. Authorities immediately secured and inspected the area after the incident.
Regarding the allegations that the Thai side constructed a concrete fence in the Ta Kwai Temple area, the Royal Thai Army confirmed that no concrete fence was built as alleged. Instead, barrier blocks were placed as a security measure to enhance the safety of personnel and reduce the risk of confrontation. This measure was implemented within the area under Thai responsibility.
The army spokesperson reiterated that the Thai military adheres to the agreements between the two countries and prioritizes resolving issues through bilateral mechanisms under the principle of peaceful means in order to maintain stability and order in the border areas of both countries.