Tensions rise at Thai-Cambodian border after landmine blast prompts checkpoint closures and security buildup

Tensions rise at Thai-Cambodian border after landmine blast prompts checkpoint closures and security buildup

Khmer Times | Tensions have escalated along the Thai-Cambodian border after a Thai soldier was seriously injured in a landmine explosion in a disputed area near the Ta Moan Thom Temple.

In response, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, Commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Area, has ordered a series of intensified countermeasures, including the closure of key border checkpoints and historical temple sites.

According to Thai media, the incident occurred on July 23, when Sergeant Phichitchai Boonkorat, a new recruit from a patrol unit of the 14th Infantry Regiment, stepped on a landmine in the Huai Bon area at Chong An Ma, Nam Yuen District, in Ubon Ratchathani Province.

The blast resulted in the amputation of his right leg, prompting immediate action from Thai military authorities.

In a swift response, the 2nd Army Area ordered the closure of four major border checkpoints—Chong Chom, Chong Sai Taku, Chong An Ma, and Chong Sa-ngam—effectively halting cross-border movement in the area.

In addition, access to the historic Ta Moan Thom and Ta Krabei temples has been restricted until further notice.

At the same time, Thailand’s National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kitrat Panphet, announced the deployment of riot control units to the Thai-Cambodian border, particularly near the disputed Ta Muen Thom Temple in Surin Province.

Although no immediate unrest has been reported, Kitrat described the move as a precautionary measure requested by the military in anticipation of potential gatherings or flare-ups.

“There are no abnormal incidents at the moment,” Kitrat said at a press briefing on Tuesday. “But this is a proactive step to prepare for any situation that may arise in a historically sensitive area.”

According to Kitrat, the primary responsibility for security along the border rests with the Suranaree Force and the 2nd Army Region.

However, the police have been called upon to support crowd control efforts, particularly in cases where civilian interactions at the temples might lead to confrontation.

“The Ta Muen Thom area has seen minor skirmishes in the past,” Kitrat noted. “We are taking measures to prevent any repeat of those events. Our goal is to ensure peace and order and to avoid unnecessary escalation.”

When asked why the Border Patrol Police (BPP), traditionally responsible for securing border zones, were not being deployed, Kitrat explained that BPP units are currently engaged in other operations.

Instead, Surin Provincial Police—more familiar with the local terrain and communities—have been tasked with the mission, in coordination with Provincial Police Region 3 Commander, Pol Lt Gen Wattana Yijeen.

While military and police officials emphasised that no active operations are underway, they confirmed that riot units are on standby in case of a planned gathering in the border area between July 26 and 27.

“If the gathering is peaceful, we will let it proceed,” Kitrat stated. “But if tensions rise, our officers are prepared to intervene swiftly and professionally.”

Kitrat concluded by affirming the police’s loyalty to national sovereignty: “We are ready to protect our country with our lives.

We will follow the lead of the Royal Thai Army and the 2nd Army Region. With reports of a possible gathering, it is only prudent to be prepared.”

Officials from both Thailand and Cambodia have yet to issue a joint statement on the landmine incident.