Surin: Villagers in Surin province have uncovered four more BM-21 artillery shells in a sugarcane field in Ban Chok.
According to Thai News Agency, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team is set to destroy the shells tomorrow. Residents who returned to the area found fragments of artillery shells scattered around, raising concerns about safety in the community.
In Ban Chorok, located in the Kab Choeng District of Surin Province, residents discovered the fully operational artillery shells partially buried in the ground. Fearing the potential danger, they refrained from approaching the shells and promptly informed local leaders, who then alerted authorities. Warning signs were placed, and the area was cordoned off while awaiting the EOD team’s intervention. The Region 3 Provincial Police have been actively urging locals to report any suspicious objects to the authorities for immediate action. The EOD team plans to simultaneously dispose of similar objects in four provinces tomorrow.
Returning villagers collected fragments of artillery shells for inspection by officials. The community has been on edge following the discovery of several shells in nearby fields. Ban Chok has been significantly impacted by recent unrest, with the tragic death of 8-year-old Nong Namkhong by a Cambodian artillery shell leaving a lasting impression. In response, village headman Ms. Piangdao Buntaeng shared that Nong Namkhong’s family home is being rebuilt after the Minister of Education recommended constructing a new house to prevent further distress for the family.
In a related development, Buriram Governor Piya Pijanam, alongside other officials, provided compensation to farmers in Buriram’s Ban Kruat District. Between July 24th and 28th, eight livestock were killed by Cambodian BM-21 artillery shells, prompting the distribution of 120,000 baht in compensation. Each affected farmer received 35,000 baht per cow and pig. Additionally, grass, royal animal feed, and pellets were distributed to alleviate the suffering of farmers and pet owners. The ministry has assured that any additional damage discovered by returning evacuees will be investigated and compensated promptly. A survey of damaged houses is underway, with repairs expected to be completed within two weeks.