Bangkok: Compensation payments will commence tomorrow for residents of Ubon Ratchathani province, marking the first distribution of funds promised to those affected by recent border conflicts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Center for the Prevention and Suppression of Disasters (CSD) announced that the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, is set to disburse these payments as part of ongoing efforts to assist affected communities. The CSD also issued an apology for the delays, attributing them to ongoing border tensions with Cambodia, which has been found violating ceasefire agreements through illegal landmine activities.
Rear Admiral Surasan Kongsiri, Mr. Nikorndej Plangkura, and Captain Kritsanus Kanchanakul reported on the outcomes of the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Management Task Force (TCMS) meeting. Rear Admiral Surasan highlighted that despite no significant troop movements, Cambodian soldiers were caught planting mines in Thai territory, breaching the General Border Committee (GBC) ceasefire agreement. In response, Thai forces continue to monitor and patrol the border.
Furthermore, the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command and the Royal Cambodian Army’s 5th Military Region convened a meeting to address regional cooperation. They signed a memorandum of understanding to implement a 13-point agreement from a previous GBC meeting, focusing on demining and tackling scam networks. Thailand has urged Cambodia to collaborate sincerely in these efforts, which remain pending Cambodia’s response.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) extended gratitude to Thai citizens for their support of military and security personnel in maintaining national sovereignty. A symbol of this effort was the installation of a permanent flagpole by the Suranaree Army at Phu Makhuea, a strategic site. The operation, conducted under challenging weather conditions, was completed successfully, with a halo phenomenon occurring during the flag-raising ceremony.
The Royal Thai Army, through the 53rd Mobile Development Unit, has adjusted tactical routes in Sisaket Province to bolster operations and support disaster relief efforts. A rapid response team has been deployed to address the aftermath of a recent border clash that impacted local infrastructure.
The Office of the Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister has reported progress in relief efforts, with funds already allocated for distribution. Following Ubon Ratchathani, other provinces including Buriram, Surin, and Sisaket will receive compensation based on verified documentation of affected individuals.
The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) is actively monitoring cyber threats, working with relevant agencies to assess and respond to incidents. Collaboration with the NBTC aims to establish measures for addressing international cyber threats.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mr. Maris Sngiampong is set to travel to Geneva to present evidence of Cambodia’s violations of international law, specifically the Ottawa Convention, due to illegal landmine activities. The minister will engage with international bodies to advocate for compliance and cooperation in clearing landmines along the border.
Mr. Nikorndej emphasized Thailand’s commitment to human rights and international humanitarian law, criticizing Cambodia’s unethical practices, including the use of civilian areas for military purposes. Thailand remains dedicated to working with the international community to ensure Cambodia’s adherence to international obligations.
The Royal Thai Air Force has implemented no-fly zones and is enhancing drone detection and countermeasure capabilities. Coordination with security agencies aims to identify and neutralize unauthorized drone activities.