Bangkok: Thailand has officially invited international organizations to meet with Cambodian prisoners, as tensions rise over allegations of mistreatment. Mr. Nikorndet Plangkur, Director-General of the Department of Information and spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that only the truth will prevail regarding the treatment of Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand. He also stressed the importance of Cambodia’s responsibility to compensate for damages related to a recent hospital attack, urging for self-respect and an immediate cessation of incitement.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndet addressed questions from the media concerning General Mohammad Nizam Jaffar, the Malaysian Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. General Jaffar, who leads the Thai-Cambodian ceasefire monitoring team, confirmed in an interview with Malaysian media that Cambodian soldiers in Thai custody were treated humanely, contradicting Cambodia’s reports to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Cambodia had alleged Thailand’s inhumane treatment of its soldiers, but Mr. Nikorndet argued that Malaysia’s support for Thailand’s claims exposes the distortion of information by Cambodia.
Mr. Nikorndet reiterated that Thailand’s statements are based on truth and can be verified by international agencies. He expressed that the upcoming meeting with international organizations will help the global community understand the truth about Thailand’s actions.
On the legal front, Mr. Nikorndet confirmed that Cambodia could face legal repercussions for the hospital attack, as international law requires perpetrators to pay compensation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively working to determine the demands from Cambodia, which extend beyond compensation alone.
“The priority now is for Cambodia to respect itself, abide by the ceasefire agreement, and halt the spread of false information,” stated Mr. Nikorndet. He criticized Cambodia’s recent actions, urging sincerity and genuine intentions from the neighboring country to cease all hostilities.