Surin province: The Royal Thai Army has reported two incidents involving Cambodian soldiers in the O'Semet-Chong Chom area, emphasizing that the actions were not intended as military attacks. The Suranaree Task Force is actively monitoring the situation to ensure border security.
According to Thai News Agency, Major General Winthai Suwari, the spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, stated that the 2nd Army Area Command, Suranaree Task Force, observed provocative behavior by Cambodian troops along the Thai-Cambodian border near Chong Chom, Kab Choeng District. On the morning of May 13th, approximately 10-15 Cambodian soldiers, accompanied by two foreigners, approached the barbed wire fence and recorded a video. Thai units issued verbal warnings but were ignored, leading to two warning shots being fired to prevent incursions and uphold the Joint Statement.
Later that evening, at 6:40 PM, an additional 11 shots were fired from the Cambodian side in the same area. The Thai units, assessing the situation as a provocation to gauge their positioning, have refrained from retaliatory action. The Suranaree Task Force remains vigilant, ready to respond to any breach of national sovereignty.
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed receiving reports of the incidents. He noted that the gunfire was on the Cambodian side of the border and did not constitute a direct provocation. The Thai side responded with two warning shots, which helped de-escalate the situation. The Prime Minister assured that Thai forces are strategically positioned along the border, preventing any potential violation of Thai sovereignty by Cambodian forces.