Bangkok: The Thai director of the Joint Operations Centre (JIC) has firmly countered Cambodia's allegations regarding the staging of events along the Thai-Cambodian border. The director emphasized that there is verifiable evidence to support Thailand's position, dismissing the need for any staged scenarios.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force and Director of the JIC for the Thai-Cambodian Situation, addressed the claims made by Cambodia concerning the deployment of ASEAN observers and media to the border area. He stated that Thailand did not stage the situation, as the observers and media witnessed the actual conditions firsthand. He stressed that Thailand's responsibility is to allow access to the area under secure conditions and to let visitors make their own assessments. If Cambodia possesses differing evidence, they are encouraged to present it through the proper channels for verification rather than making public accusations.
In response to Cambodia's assertion that the observers were not shown the complete truth due to Thailand's control over the routes, Air Chief Marshal Praphas explained that safety is a crucial factor during border visits, necessitating pre-assessment and coordination of routes. He clarified that ensuring safety does not imply dictating the observers' beliefs, and Thailand encourages verification of information through the available evidence.
Addressing remarks by Colonel Roderick Garcia about discrepancies between findings and prior information, the JIC Director welcomed further investigation, viewing it as a positive step. He asserted that Thailand has always advocated for judgment not based on claims but on verified facts. Discrepancies between information and on-ground observations should prompt further verification, and Thailand is prepared to support a neutral investigation.
Regarding questions about the potential implications of images of scam bases or suspected locations, the JIC Director cautioned against drawing legal conclusions without thorough investigation. He stated that images and locations represent preliminary information and require verification and law enforcement to determine any wrongdoing. He reiterated that transnational crime, particularly online scam networks, is a regional issue necessitating cooperation and evidence-based actions rather than accusations.
Responding to Cambodia's query on troop withdrawal discussions, Air Chief Marshal Praphas differentiated between troop deployment for security and territorial occupation. He highlighted that Thailand does not intend to seize Cambodian territory and that troop presence is governed by existing bilateral agreements, such as the joint statement of December 27, 2025. He insisted that border disputes should be resolved through the proper mechanisms established by both countries.
The JIC Director reiterated that Thailand seeks verification of facts rather than reliance on statements. He urged further investigation if doubts arise and encouraged evidence presentation for comparison. Observers are tasked with observing, not judging, and border issues must revert to agreed-upon mechanisms.
In his concluding remarks, the JIC Director stated, "Stories can be created, but evidence can be verified. Thailand will not compete with rhetoric; we will compete with facts, allowing for scrutiny and returning to the agreements that both sides have signed. That is the most responsible solution."