Surin: The Royal Thai Army has clarified an incident at Ta Muen Thom Temple, attributing it to a misunderstanding involving Cambodian tourists.

According to Thai News Agency, Colonel Richa Suksuwanon, deputy army spokesman, detailed the events that unfolded on July 15, 2025, when a conflict arose between Cambodian tourists and Thai military officers at Prasat Ta Muen Thom, located in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province.

The incident began when a Cambodian female tourist expressed dissatisfaction and reprimanded Thai military officers performing a tourist count near the Cambodian side of the temple entrance, accusing them of violating Cambodian sovereignty. Thai officials responded by asserting that Ta Muen Thom Temple is within Thailand’s sovereignty and refuted any allegations of encroachment on Cambodian territory.

Military officers from both Thailand and Cambodia, stationed nearby, intervened to mediate and prevent the situation from escalating. In the interest of safety, visitors were temporarily asked to leave the temple area. Following negotiations, a mutual understanding was achieved, and the situation resolved without further incident, with officials resuming their duties.

The Royal Thai Army expressed gratitude to the Thai people for visiting Prasat Ta Muen Thom, highlighting its significance in preserving cultural heritage and boosting tourism and the domestic economy. The Army also thanked the public for their support of military personnel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, order, and sovereignty in border areas.