Bangkok: A group known as "PDRC-PDRC" gathered in front of the Cambodian embassy to symbolically demand that the government preserve Thai sovereignty after a soldier stepped on a landmine, injuring three people.
According to Thai News Agency, more than 100 police officers were stationed in front of the Cambodian embassy, deployed at various points, and placed steel barriers along the line to maintain order, security, and manage traffic around the area. The demonstration was joined by the Student and People's Network for Reform of Thailand (SNN), the Dharma Army, the People's Center for the Protection of Institutions (PCD), and other masses, who traveled to the embassy following the incident at the Thai-Cambodian border. Three Thai soldiers were injured, losing their legs after stepping on a landmine while patrolling from the Morakot Operations Base to Hill 481.
The protesters expressed their demands through symbolic gestures, waving the Thai national flag, holding signs asserting their resolve to not give up Thai territory, and singing a rousing anthem. A car equipped with a loudspeaker was parked on the roadside, broadcasting speeches about the landmine incident and urging the government to uphold the nation's sovereignty. Despite the protest, traffic continued to flow in all lanes in front of the embassy.
Mr. Pichit Chaiyamongkol, the leader of the protest group, expressed that the demonstration was a symbolic message to the Cambodian government and military, criticizing the border dispute as a threat to Thailand's security. He noted that both Thailand and Cambodia are signatories of the Ottawa Treaty, suggesting the incident violated this agreement. After approximately three hours, the protest concluded smoothly, and participants began planning further activities in Nakhon Ratchasima and Surin provinces.