Phu makhuea: “Maris” leads the ASEAN diplomatic delegation from the Ottawa Convention to visit Phu Makhuea area. Mr. Maris Sengiampong, Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with a delegation of diplomats from 33 ASEAN member countries and states party to the Ottawa Convention, one organization, and two international organizations, visited the area near the Phu Makhuea Operations Unit, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, to observe the operation of mine clearance and seizure of various weapons found in the area. The media also participated in observing the results of the clearance and seizure of weapons.
According to Thai News Agency, officials from the 4th Engineer Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Army Area, reported to the observers that they had recovered and seized 46 anti-personnel mines, of which 16 were ready for use. They also found anti-tank mines, RPG rocket launchers, and 60 and 82 mm grenades.
Officials said that despite the ceasefire being declared between the two countries for some time, Thai military personnel continue to conduct searches in Thai territory, which has resulted in the discovery of mines and Cambodian military equipment from time to time. Officials say most anti-personnel mines detected are buried low in the ground and concealed with dirt and leaf litter, with metal detectors being the primary tool used to find them. The damage to those who step on them varies depending on the type of footwear worn.
In addition, officials provided additional information about the seized weapons, stating that while some of the weapons appeared old, they were not antiques, but rather were in a state of disrepair due to poor storage. One of the diplomats asked officials about the latest discovery of anti-personnel mines, which they replied were found three days ago in the area of the Phu Makhuea operational base. Military officials were unable to provide information on the source of the equipment found, as it could be related to a third country.
At the end of the visit, naval officers demonstrated anti-personnel mine clearance methods to the observers, with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs providing an English-language explanation to ensure mutual understanding. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs then led a delegation to Sao Thong Chai Subdistrict, Kantharalak District, to inspect the damage to homes affected by the explosions at the Thai-Cambodian border clash.