Ubon ratchathani: "Paethongtarn-Big Lek" traveled to Ubon Ratchathani Province to visit soldiers who were injured after stepping on landmines. General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, along with Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister in her capacity as Minister of Culture, made the journey to Saraphisitprasong Camp Hospital to offer support and encouragement to the affected rangers.
According to Thai News Agency, the visit followed an incident in the Chong Bok area, Nam Yuen District, where three soldiers were injured by a landmine. Prior to the visit, General Nattapol announced that the army would provide financial assistance to the injured rangers. Upon learning of this, Ms. Paethongtarn expressed her intention to join the trip and offer her support.
General Nattapol revealed that one of the soldiers, who lost his leg, would receive a financial package including a royal morale booster of approximately 50,000 baht along with 900,000 baht in financial assistance. Additionally, the possibility of recruiting relatives of the injured into military service is being considered, with the soldier's sister expressing interest in joining. The soldier who lost his leg will also receive approximately 15,600 baht per month for care, while the other two soldiers with minor injuries will receive around 10,000 baht.
Regarding the investigation into the landmines, General Nattapol stated that it is ongoing to determine if the explosives are new or old. He emphasized the importance of relying on evidence rather than assumptions, acknowledging the presence of old explosives in the area. However, if new explosives are discovered, it would be a violation of the Ottawa Convention, which both countries are part of.
The initial investigation period is expected to last 2-3 days, with General Nattapol urging patience as they await the results. He noted the possibility of new bombs with advanced technology, such as undetectable plastic bombs, but stressed the need for evidence.
In response to whether patrols in the area need to be tightened, General Nattapol confirmed that increased caution is necessary. He has instructed the Second Army Region commander to ensure vigilance among personnel operating in the area.
In a separate matter, General Nattapol addressed concerns raised by Mr. Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP for the Prachachon Party, regarding the government's efforts to tackle call center issues. He assured that efforts are being expedited, though working internationally presents challenges due to the need for cooperation from other countries. General Songwit Noonpakdee, Supreme Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Army, is the point of contact for this initiative, as emphasized by General Nattapol.