Burapa task force mobilised as dispute with Cambodia escalates

Thailand’s Burapha Task Force, which oversees the Thai-Cambodian border, has moved its troops and weapons to a police compound in the border province of Sa Kaeo, in readiness for any possible border emergency.

Commander, Major General Benchapon Dechatiwong na Ayutthaya, said yesterday's relocation is intended to reassure the public that, if a conflict arises at the border, the army will be there to protect them.

“Once they receive orders, our troops and weapons will act quickly to ensure the safety of the people,” he said.

Images of the relocation were circulating on major Thai news and social media platforms, garnering supportive comments for the army and criticism of Cambodia.

Tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border rose following a brief confrontation with Cambodian soldiers in a disputed area on May 28.

A Cambodian sergeant was killed during the exchange of gunfire, according to the Cambodian army.

Military chiefs held an urgent meeting to de-escalate the situation, which resulted in both sides agreeing to withdraw from the disputed site, pending a joint panel’s visit to the area.

It appears that the Cambodian side, especially former prime minister Hun Sen, is seeking to resolve the dispute through the International Court of Justice, but claims that the land in question belongs to Cambodia.