Four Cambodian soldiers, operating in the Phu Phee area, crossed the border near the Thai tactical barbed-wire fence and fired three rifle shots opposite Pa Man Base in Kantharalak District of Thailand’s Si Sa Ket province, apparently to test Thai forces’ reaction.
The Thai 2nd Army Region’s Facebook page reported that Thai troops exercised restraint, did not return fire and no casualties or damage have been reported.
The incident occurred at 1.22pm today in Saothong Chai sub-district.
The army described the act as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, questioning the Cambodian military’s commitment to accords signed at the General Border Committee (GBC) and Regional Border Committee (RBC) meetings.
In a related development, Thai forces detected a Cambodian drone operating in the Sam Tae area. Both sides remain deployed in defensive positions, with Thai troops manning observation posts and are prepared for any further incidents.
The 2nd Army Region is warning of a heightened risk of unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border and is urging the public to rely only on official government sources, to avoid misinformation and fake news.
Earlier The Thai Army has strengthened security along the border, following Cambodia’s continued alleged violations of the ceasefire agreementsaid its deputy spokesman Col Richa Suksuvanon today.
Cambodia’s alleged activities included troop reinforcement, covert use of landmines, drone surveillance and other provocative actions, he said.
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of military operations in the area, the Thai Army is asking for cooperation from the public and all sectors. The new measures include:
Donations and visits to personnel - Those who wish to make donations or visits to military personnel must coordinate with the responsible unit in advance and such activities may only take place in areas set by the military.
Travel into areas in which border units are stationed - Civilians or individuals from outside agencies will be prohibited from engaging in any activities within military deployment zones along the border. If access is necessary, approval must be obtained first from the Army Operations Centre.
Dissemination of military information and images - The army asks that the public and organisations refrain from publishing information or photographs that could reveal military operations, such as maps showing troop deployments, key terrain features or details of unit activities.
With the cooperation of the people, the army says that morale will be strengthened and the military will be able to fulfill its mission to safeguard national sovereignty with maximum safety and effectiveness.
