Thailand grants military control over border checkpoints with Cambodia amid escalating tensions

The Star

13 hours ago

BANGKOK: Thailand currently has 18 checkpoints with Cambodia across seven provinces — Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Trat, and Buriram.
Royal Thai Army (RTA) spokesperson Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree announced on Saturday (June 7) that RTA Commander-in-Chief Gen Pana Klaewblaudtuk had signed Army Order No. 806/2568, authorising the commanders of the Burapha and Suranaree Task Forces to oversee the opening and closing of all border checkpoints along the Thai-Cambodian border.
These commanders are empowered to implement appropriate security measures and conditions based on the severity of the situation in their respective jurisdictions.
This directive follows a resolution from the National Security Council meeting on June 6, which designated the RTA as the lead agency for safeguarding national security along the border and ensuring full cooperation from all relevant agencies.
According to the RTA, the decision was prompted by Cambodia's repeated incursions into Thai territory and increasingly provocative actions, including armed presence and the construction of military fortifications near the border.
Despite Thailand's diplomatic efforts and restraint, Cambodia's actions have heightened concerns over national sovereignty and security, prompting the Thai military to adopt stronger defensive measures.
Thailand currently has 18 checkpoints with Cambodia across seven provinces—Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Trat, and Buriram—comprising:
8 permanent checkpoints, including:
- Chong Sa Ngam (Sisaket)
- Chong Chom (Surin)
- Ban Khlong Luek (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Khao Din (Sa Kaeo)
- Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Laem (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Phak Kard (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Hat Lek (Trat)
9 temporary checkpoints, including:
- Ban Nam Yuen (Ubon Ratchathani)
- Ban Ta Phraya (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Nong Prue (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Subtari (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Suan Som (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Bueng Chanang Lang (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Muen Dan (Trat)
- Ban Ma Muang (Trat)
- Chong Sai Taku (Buriram)
1 tourist access point:
- Khao Phra Wihan's Entrance (Sisaket)
Currently closed checkpoints:
- Ban Muen Dan (Trat) – Closed due to inactivity and no cross-border trade
- Khao Phra Wihan's Entrance (Sisaket) – Closed for security reasons
As of now, 16 border checkpoints remain open while 2 are closed.
The Thai military continues to monitor the situation closely and is prepared to act decisively to protect national sovereignty and public safety. - The Nation/ANN