Border crossings in Sa Kaeo closed to all vehicles from Cambodia

Thailand’s Burapha Task Force has today imposed an immediate ban on the entry of Cambodia-registered motorcycles and push carts into Thailand through all the border checkpoints in Sa Kaeo province.

Pedestrians and cars are still being allowed to cross the border. No reason was given for the ban.

The checkpoints affected are the Ban Klong Luek permanent checkpoint, the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge in Ban Nong Ian, the Ban Khao Din permanent checkpoint, as well as the Ban Ta Phraya and Ban Nong Prue temporary checkpoints.

On Saturday, the Second Army Region ordered the closure of the Sai Taku checkpoint in Buri Ram province.

The closure of the border has affected Thai traders, who are complaining that their revenues have dropped substantially.

One trader, Anyika Sa-ingrum, said she usually earns about 40,000 baht a day selling fresh seafood and fruit to Cambodian traders.

Her earnings started to drop after the Thai military imposed border crossing restrictions, by opening the border only three days a week from 9am to noon, instead of seven days a week, from morning until late in the evening.

Meanwhile, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement yesterday, advising Cambodian citizens not to travel to Thailand unless it is absolutely necessary, citing tensions between the two countries, according to the Khmer Times.

The ministry also advised Cambodian citizens staying or working in Thailand to exercise caution, to keep abreast of official information and to avoid visiting “risky” venues, such as places where a lot of people are gathering.

Anyone in need of help is advised to contact the Cambodian Embassy or the consular office, reported the Khmer Times.