Landmines discovered near Surin's boundary with Cambodia
In a troubling turn of events, the Royal Thai Army has discovered PMN-2 anti-personnel landmines in Thai territory in Surin province, raising concerns about peace and security along the shared border.
On Monday, the army public relations Facebook page shared the news of the discovery, which occurred on August 23 in the western side of Ta Kwai temple in tambon Bakdai of Phanom Dong Rak district. The location is approximately 1.7 kilometres from Hill 350.
The Thai Army has accused Cambodia of continuous violation of the bilateral ceasefire agreement and attempting to escalate tensions. This allegation follows an incident on August 22, when Thai troops reported detecting Cambodian soldiers crossing into Thai territory and observing the movements of Thai patrols.
The discovery of the landmines, along with two grenade launcher rounds and numerous caltrops (spiky objects believed to increase damage caused by an explosion), has been described as provocative and intended to raise tensions between the two sides.
Gen Pana Klaewplodthuk, army commander-in-chief, has instructed the 2nd Army to carry out their duties with caution and vigilance, and to deploy combat engineers to inspect high-risk areas and ensure they are safe. The general commanding the 2nd Army Region of the Royal Thai Army assigned to monitor high-risk areas near the border for security is General Pornpipat Benyasri.
Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, spokesman for the Royal Thai Army, stated that the actions and evidence demonstrate Cambodia's violation of the ceasefire agreement and the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines. The exact timeline of the alleged landmine laying by Cambodian soldiers is not specified in the text.
This development contradicts Cambodia's public portrayal of itself as a peace-loving country committed to the ceasefire agreement. The Thai Army urges for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing border disputes and compliance with international treaties for the safety and well-being of both nations.
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