Bangkok: The Army spokesperson reiterated that Thai soldiers are prioritizing every location where Cambodian encroachment is detected. The Thai Army spokesperson confirmed that all areas encroached upon by Cambodia remain priorities for Thai troops, who are making efforts to reclaim those territories. The spokesperson indicated that the idea of establishing military villages along the border to prevent Cambodian encroachment is a matter for the future. Meanwhile, Thai troops continue to clear landmines.
According to Thai News Agency, Wassana Nanom's Facebook page reports that Cambodian forces continue to use drones for border surveillance, but not in large numbers. Additionally, Cambodia has led an ASEAN Observer Team delegation to inspect and collect evidence in several areas, including the O Chik Bridge, Prey Chan village, Chok Chey village, Bung Takuan, Chong Chom, and O'Semed, particularly focusing on Preah Vihear Temple. This follows recent reports of weapons and equipment being hastily removed from the temple to create the illusion for the observers that no weapons were found there. Previously, Cambodia submitted a 500-page report to UNESCO detailing the damage to Preah Vihear Temple from the first round of fighting, and it is expected they are preparing another report on the damage from the second round.
The army says building military villages along the border is a matter for the future. Regarding Hill 745, Chong Bok, or other areas that Thailand has not yet been able to reclaim from Cambodia, Major General Winthai Suvari, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, confirmed that all points encroached upon by Cambodia remain a priority for Thai troops. Efforts are underway to reclaim these areas, but the specific methods will be determined. The idea of establishing military villages along the border to prevent further Cambodian encroachment is a future plan. Currently, the focus is on increasing patrols, improving security and fortifications, and constructing roads. Access to border areas has been difficult in the past due to forested terrain, with Cambodia establishing communities and bringing villagers into the border areas.
Regarding landmine clearance along the border, the military is continuing its work, but it will take some time because there are a large number of landmines in the border area. The 2nd Army Region is currently accelerating land preparation, especially around Ta Kwai Temple and Hill 350, which are strategically important points of interest to the entire nation. There is a plan to develop them into tourist attractions due to their historical significance.
Regarding the incidents in several areas where Cambodian forces have built bunkers encroaching on Thai territory, the Thai Army believes that if these bunkers are sturdy and strong, authorities may be able to modify them for appropriate use by personnel serving along the border. However, this will all depend on the suitability of the situation. Nevertheless, the Thai Army has ordered all units to compile a list of the seized items, including motorcycles and tractors, and to prepare for their return to Cambodia.