SA KAEO — Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have reached a boiling point on Wednesday after violent clashes led Thai authorities to issue a 30-day withdrawal ultimatum to Cambodian residents in disputed territory.
The confrontation erupted Wednesday at Ban Nong Ya Kaew in Sa Kaeo Province’s Kok Sung District when Cambodian villagers attempted to tear down Thai barbed wire fencing. Thai riot police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets in two separate incidents at 4:20 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., injuring several Cambodians.
The clashes weren’t one-sided. Stone-throwing protesters left two Thai police officers with head wounds, prompting authorities to deploy Long Range Acoustic Devices for crowd control. The confrontation followed previous attempts by Cambodian crowds to remove Thai defensive barriers on September 17.
Army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree accused Cambodia of deliberate provocation, saying civilian protesters were being used to violate ceasefire agreements. “This is clearly Thai sovereign territory, not disputed land or Cambodian territory,” he emphasized, criticizing Cambodian authorities for failing to intervene.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid Rising Tensions
Malaysian observer Brigadier General Samsul Rizal Bin Musa visited the area but clarified he wasn’t there to settle territorial disputes. The IOT Thailand delegation head praised Thai military restraint while urging patience for upcoming Joint Boundary Commission talks.
Meanwhile, Sa Kaeo Governor Prinya Photisart met with his Cambodian counterpart Um Reatrey at the Poipet-Klong Luek border crossing. Thailand presented several demands: civilians from both sides must stay 500 meters away from disputed areas, no mass mobilization, and no military buildup with heavy weapons.
The Ultimatum
The most serious proposal came with a clear deadline. If the next General Border Committee meeting fails to reach agreement, Thailand will formally demand that Cambodian residents leave Ban Nong Jan and Ban Nong Ya Kaew within 30 days, taking all property with them.
Cambodia couldn’t immediately accept the ultimatum, needing approval from higher authorities. Thai officials made clear they’ll protect their sovereignty regardless of Cambodia’s response.
Standoff Continues
The situation remained tense Wednesday night as the 1st Army Region reported that 200 Cambodian people and soldiers had established a base to monitor Thai actions in the disputed area. Thai forces are also on high alert and prepared for further developments.
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