Thai-Cambodian clashes enter third day, Buri Ram shelters filling up

Thailand and Cambodia remained engaged in cross-border military operations for a third consecutive day today. A Thai soldier has been killed and many others injured.

The Second Army Region’s Facebook page reported at 6am today that Cambodian forces had launched fresh overnight attacks, using BM-21 rockets in the areas of Sam Taet, Phu Phi, Chong Ta Thao and Prasat Ta Kwai.

Thai troops were forced to respond, under the rules of engagement, to neutralise the threat and protect the lives and property of those on the Thai side of the border.

Meanwhile, Army spokesman Maj-Gen Winthai Suvaree said this morning that exchanges of small-arms fire and support weapons continued along the Thai-Cambodian border. Thai forces used mortars, while Cambodian troops continued firing BM-21 rockets. No casualties have been reported so far today.

At Prasat Khana in Surin there were no further clashes, though troops must still clear landmines before fully securing the area.

In Sa Kaeo province, under the First Army Region, troops brought the situation under control in Ban Nong Ya Kaeo yesterday.

At 1am today, the Burapha Task Force reported that Cambodian artillery shells had hit two homes in Ban Khok Thahan, in Tha Phraya sub-district, Sa Kaeo. No injuries or deaths were reported.

The Thai Army carried out counter-operations against Cambodian positions yesterday, after determining that Cambodian military activities posed a direct threat to Thailand’s security and to residents in border communities.

Significant Thai operations yesterday included:

• Destroying an abandoned building believed to house scam-network operations near Chong Anh Ma, Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani.

• Destroying anti-drone towers near Preah Vihear and Huai Ta Maria in Kantharalak district, Si Sa Ket.

• Clearing a cashew plantation encroaching into the operational zone in the Rayi area, east of Chong Chom.

• Securing Prasat Khana in Kap Choeng district, Surin.

• Destroying a supply logistics cable-car on Hill 350, near Prasat Ta Kwai.

In Buri Ram province this morning, residents from two border districts continued to take refuge at evacuation centres.

Large tents are being used to accommodate the growing number of displaced people, and car parks at the centre are full. Most evacuees have already spent two nights at the shelter.

Residents from Ban Kruat district said they fled yesterday as the intensifying border clashes made it unsafe to remain at home, with loud explosions frightening elderly family members.

A royally-sponsored kitchen and a central field kitchen, with around 20 food stations in total, have been set up to feed the evacuees. Officials said additional evacuees arrived last night as fighting escalated. More are expected throughout the day.