Bangkok: The Commander of the Second Army Region has expressed readiness to deploy troops in response to any Cambodian incursions or secret mine-laying activities along the border. The Commander emphasized that any detected encroachment by Cambodian soldiers will initially be met with warning shots, followed by immediate fire if the situation persists.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, the Second Army Region Commander, discussed the upcoming Thai-Cambodian Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting scheduled for August 27. He highlighted the importance of Cambodia agreeing to clear mines and stated his intention to report to the United Nations if an agreement is not reached, documenting his protest formally.
During an interview at the Sutham Areekul Conference Room, Lt. Gen. Boonsin addressed questions regarding potential Cambodian military actions, including the laying of additional mines. He underscored the importance of sovereignty and the necessity of a response, which would include warning shots in the event of intrusion. He also mentioned that if frontline patrol forces encounter mines, a similar response protocol would be followed.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin responded to inquiries about the Cambodian military's use of small arms fire, clarifying that the majority of such incidents occur internally rather than at the border. However, he assured that any direct threat would be met with appropriate defensive action.
As the RBC meeting approaches, Lt. Gen. Boonsin expressed optimism about the negotiations proceeding smoothly, contingent upon the terms discussed. He mentioned the possibility of escalating any severe conditions to his superiors for further evaluation.
In relation to political matters, Lt. Gen. Boonsin stated that the ongoing case involving an audio clip between Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra and Samdech Hun Sen, which is set for a Constitutional Court ruling on August 29, remains separate from their border protection duties. He assured that the situation would not impact the routine operations of civil servants.