Sa kaeo: The 1st Army Region of Thailand has reinforced its position, urging citizens to remain confident in reclaiming sovereignty in the Ban Nong Chan area. They are contemplating escalating measures beyond verbal warnings and considering further demolitions. The 1st Army Region Commander maintains control, consistently giving orders while remaining out of the public eye. Changes in army commanders or government officials are not expected to impact border security.
According to Thai News Agency, Maj. Gen. Suravich Daengchan, Chief of Staff of the First Army Area and spokesperson for the First Army Area Operations Center, highlighted the significance of the ongoing situation at the Thai-Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo Province. The First Army Area recently held a groundbreaking press conference to discuss this issue. The operation followed the Army's Chakkraphong Phuwanat 681 Plan, which has been active since July 26, 2025. This operation forced a Cambodian retreat, allowing Thailand to reclaim sovereignty in Ban Nong Chan, with a barbed wire barrier erected as a defensive measure. The First Army Area Commander personally oversaw these operations with an emphasis on minimizing Cambodian civilian casualties.
The First Army Area has also participated in a GBC meeting in Malaysia, advocating for a 13-point agreement with Cambodia. Two unresolved issues revolve around bomb fund recovery and scammer suppression, which are priorities for the First Army Area. These efforts led to Cambodia's acceptance of the points during the RBC meeting in Sa Kaeo Province. The operation's success has impacted border area regulations, including the Ban Nong Chan territory.
The governor of Sa Kaeo Province recently led residents to survey the land, preparing title deeds for an area affected by violations for over 40 years. The governor plans to send a letter to the governor of Bonteay Meanchey Province to evacuate Cambodian households facing immigration violations. This move assures the public of continued efforts to reclaim sovereign territory in Ban Nong Chan.
Maj. Gen. Suravich Daengchan reiterated that the First Army Area is committed to honoring sovereignty and protecting citizens' lives and property. He addressed allegations of military involvement in the area, inviting individuals with evidence to submit their details for disciplinary action.
When questioned about the Khlong Luek checkpoint in Aranyaprathet District, Maj. Gen. Suravich explained that its opening was a response to the presence of stranded Thais in Cambodia. The checkpoint was temporarily opened on a case-by-case basis and has since been closed.
On the potential change in border commanders or government, Maj. Gen. Suravich assured that operations and policies would remain consistent, maintaining a unified approach to issues within the Second Army Area. He dismissed concerns about a political vacuum affecting security, affirming the caretaker government's responsibility to address these matters and emphasizing his commitment to upholding national sovereignty.