Surin: Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force and Director of the Thai-Cambodian Situation Information Center (JIC), led a site survey at the Chong Chom border crossing. The survey, involving Airports of Thailand (AOT) and both Thai and foreign media, aimed to inspect areas suspected of being used for scams and military activities. The Air Chief Marshal emphasized that Thailand has no intention of seizing Cambodian territory, despite concerns over Cambodia being used as a base for military and scam-related activities.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Chief Marshal Praphas addressed the media, reiterating that the mission was to communicate Thailand's stance against territorial seizure. He expressed concerns over Cambodia's alleged use of the area for drone attacks and military activities against Thailand. He highlighted the infiltration attempts by Cambodian soldiers disguised as villagers, which were thwarted by Thai forces. The Air Chief Marshal called for cooperative efforts to prevent Cambodian territory from becoming a scam hub, often referred to as "Scambodia."
Air Chief Marshal Praphas revealed that reports from the area indicated attempts by the Cambodian side to breach the border by cutting barbed wire fences. These attempts were met with resistance from Thai forces, resulting in the capture of infiltrators. He emphasized the importance of de-escalation and bilateral discussions to build trust and prevent further provocations. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to clarify the situation on the international stage.
The Air Chief Marshal reported that a perimeter survey uncovered vulnerabilities, but reassured that Thai defenses are robust. He mentioned the discovery and destruction of explosives and ammunition in reclaimed areas. The Thai military's actions, he clarified, are not aimed at border demarcation but at protecting national sovereignty under the Chakraphong Bhuvanath Plan.
In response to claims from the Cambodian leadership about territory seizure, Air Chief Marshal Praphas reiterated Thailand's commitment to non-aggression. He underscored the global threat posed by scammers and the need for international cooperation to address the issue. He questioned the Cambodian government's awareness of the scam operations within its territory.
Lieutenant Colonel Kanyakorn Chotiphanat, commander of the 25th Infantry Battalion, assured the public of the readiness and morale of Thai troops at the border. He confirmed that the units are well-equipped and prepared to defend national sovereignty. Despite provocations from the opposing side, Thai forces remain vigilant and committed to their duties.