Surin: Cambodia is in chaos following an incident where a group of Cambodian citizens and monks invaded the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin Province, leading to tensions with Thai tourists. The Thai military and government officials were compelled to intervene, urging the group to retreat immediately.
According to Thai News Agency, the situation unfolded when approximately 15 Cambodians, initially posing as tourists, gathered at Prasat Ta Muen Thom in Phanom Dong Rak District around 10:00 a.m. The group then blocked the entrance to the temple, preventing Thai visitors from entering, despite the area being recognized as Thai territory. This prompted Thai military and administrative personnel to address the situation and halt the provocation, with Cambodian soldiers assisting in de-escalating the incident.
Reports indicate that the Cambodian military base near Ta Muen Thom served as an assembly point for the group of civilians and monks. Cambodian soldiers stationed at the temple monitored Thai tourist activities and coordinated with their side to instigate disturbances, seemingly aiming to provoke the Thai authorities.
In a related incident on June 18, about 30 Cambodians gathered at Prasat Ta Kwai in Surin Province, where they engaged in singing activities. This occurrence was documented by military media, sparking widespread public criticism online due to its perceived inappropriateness.
Lt. Col. Richa Suksuwanon, deputy army spokesman, disclosed that the Thai military responded to these provocations with tact and diplomacy. They reiterated that such actions contradicted earlier agreements between the two nations and urged the Cambodian group to cease their activities. The group reportedly complied and vacated the area after about 20 minutes.
Under the joint agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, military personnel without weapons are allowed at Prasat Ta Kwai to facilitate tourist visits, emphasizing the need for peaceful cooperation at these culturally significant sites.