Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepjamnong, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, visited Sa Kaeo province on 21/9 to inspect the training and equipment of riot police deployed to address border tensions following Cambodian protests in a disputed area.

The 1,400 riot police were mobilized from five eastern provinces: Sa Kaeo, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong. They are tasked with responding to incidents across eight eastern Thai provinces and supporting border security units if requested.

Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepjamnong, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, inspects riot police in Sa Kaeo province on 21/9. Photo: Nation

Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepjamnong, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, inspects riot police in Sa Kaeo province on 21/9. Photo: Nation

General Yingyos emphasized that the riot police must strictly adhere to tactical procedures, regularly check their equipment, and conduct drills to minimize errors and casualties. He stated that the border situation remained stable but emphasized the police's resolve to address any violations during Cambodian protests.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the same day that the border with Cambodia would remain closed, and negotiations would be suspended if Cambodian protests and clashes with Thai security forces continued.

Mr. Anutin confirmed that the Thai military has been given full authority over border operations with Cambodia, while his government is responsible for diplomatic efforts and setting conditions for negotiations.

"The army will handle military matters. They can plant the Thai flag anywhere on our territory to reassure our citizens. I fully support them," Prime Minister Anutin said.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in Bangkok on 7/9. Photo: Reuters

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in Bangkok on 7/9. Photo: Reuters

Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated on 17/9 when Thai security forces, primarily border patrol police, clashed with approximately 200 Cambodian protesters and monks.

The clash occurred in a long-disputed area known as Ban Nong Ya Kaew village in Sa Kaeo province, Thailand, and Prey Chan village in Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia.

Thailand accused the Cambodian group of attempting to breach a barbed wire fence and confronting border patrol officers, injuring several and forcing them to use tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Thai authorities described the Cambodians' actions as "territorial encroachment," "provocative," and a "violation of the ceasefire."

Cambodia reported 30 casualties, including monks, civilians, and soldiers, claiming the incident occurred on Cambodian territory.

Thai media reported that 30 to 40 Cambodians gathered near the barbed wire fence in the disputed area on the morning of 22/9. Cambodian soldiers and about 100 police officers were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Thanh Danh - Ngoc Anh (Khaosod, Nation)