Bangkok: “Phumtham” has shifted the responsibility to the Second Army Region Commander to address the issue of drones spreading across the border. The Ministry of Interior recently announced plans to propose an additional budget for compensating the families of those deceased, following reports of payments ranging from 8-10 million baht per person. He also criticized governors for their inability to disburse funds, ultimately passing the matter to the Second Army Region Commander to tackle the ongoing drone problem in border areas.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechchai, acting as Prime Minister, spoke about the issue of drones encroaching on Thailand’s border despite a nationwide ban. He emphasized the duty to track and apprehend violators, likening it to enforcing a ban on thieves. Mr. Phumtham ordered Lieutenant General Boonsin Phadklang, Commander of the Second Army Region, to convene a meeting with governors from 10 provinces, stressing the need for regional cooperation.

Regarding compensation for those affected by the Thai-Cambodian border clashes, Mr. Phumtham mentioned that, based on his investigations, the provincial governor had claimed compensation had been disbursed. However, when challenged by MPs from the Bhumjaithai Party, Ms. Thirat Samretwanit, Deputy Minister of the Interior, confirmed with the Ubon Ratchathani governor that payments had indeed been made. He expressed skepticism over conflicting reports but stated that any failure to act would result in accountability.

Mr. Phumtham reiterated the need for decisive action if disbursements could not be executed as planned, suggesting alternative arrangements. When questioned about the GBC meeting’s conclusion, he refrained from commenting.

Further inquiries about compensation for those killed in the clashes led Mr. Phumtham to mention that additional compensation of 1 million baht for the families of the deceased had been considered. He planned to present this matter at the upcoming Cabinet meeting, though he withheld specific details about the amount, urging patience until the Cabinet’s decision. Mr. Phumtham also addressed rumors of an 8-10 million baht budget per individual, stating that he awaited the Cabinet’s determination on the final approval.