Bangkok: The commander of the 2nd Army Region has committed to awaiting the investigation results regarding the landmine incident that led to the amputation of a Thai soldier's leg. Should the investigation reveal that the landmine is a new one, the commander plans to propose a protest to the United Nations, seeking sanctions against Cambodia for allegedly violating the Ottawa Convention.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred when a soldier stepped on a landmine at Chong Bok hill in Ubon Ratchathani Province. The investigation is expected to determine within two days whether the landmine is new or old. Thailand has asserted its commitment to addressing this issue and will not overlook any findings.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, who leads the 2nd Army Region, stated that should the investigation confirm the landmines are new, the army will coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lodge a protest against Cambodia to the United Nations. This action would seek to enforce sanctions on Cambodia as per the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits anti-personnel landmines. Both Thailand and Cambodia are signatories, along with nearly 200 other countries. Additional countermeasures, however, have not yet been disclosed.
The Chong Bok area, where the explosion injured three soldiers, is known as an old battlefield, and remnants of past conflicts, such as old mines, can still be found there. The National Mine Disposal Team, recognized globally for their expertise, has been dispatched to the area for further examination. The mines might have been placed either before or after the clash at Chong Bok on May 28. Soldiers in the area have been instructed to exercise increased vigilance.
Lt. Gen. Phadklang also addressed concerns about his presence at various events rather than being in the field. He clarified that different levels of command, including lieutenant, squad, captain, colonel, and commander, are responsible for directing operations in each area. He emphasized the importance of balancing normal duties with field operations, stating that he must be present on-site if a problem arises.