Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army has provided an explanation following a clash at Ban Nong Ya Kaew, where Thai officials were injured during a confrontation with Cambodian protesters. The incident occurred as Thai authorities attempted to enhance border security through the deployment of barriers and concertina wire.

According to Thai News Agency, the Burapha Task Force reported that approximately 200 Cambodian protesters gathered to demonstrate against the security measures implemented by Thai officials along the Thai-Cambodian border in Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, Khok Sung District, Sa Kaeo Province. The Royal Thai Army had initially attempted to communicate and clarify their actions to the protesters while proceeding with the installation of the security barriers.

However, tensions escalated, and by 4:20 p.m., Thai officials resorted to using tear gas and rubber bullets to manage the situation. This led to a temporary retreat of both protesters and riot control officers due to the effects of the tear gas.

By 5:00 p.m., the Thai side continued to strengthen the border security with additional barbed wire and vehicle tires while employing tear gas, rubber bullets, and Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs) to maintain order. In response, the Cambodian protesters began to withdraw from the area, yet continued to hurl insults and engage in aggressive actions, including throwing logs, rocks, and shooting slingshots. These confrontations resulted in injuries to Thai officials, and the situation remains under close observation by authorities.