CHANTHABURI, Thailand – In a powerful act of cross-border humanitarian cooperation, Thai marines stationed at the Ban Phak Kad permanent border checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district urgently opened the gate last night to admit a seriously ill Cambodian woman suffering from a life-threatening bloodstream infection.
According to military sources, the Thai side was contacted through the Thai-Cambodian coordination unit in Chanthaburi after Cambodian authorities issued an emergency plea. The woman had reportedly developed a high fever, chills, and signs of septicemia. Due to a lack of adequate medical equipment and personnel on the Cambodian side, doctors were unable to provide life-saving care.
After the request was relayed up the chain of command, senior Thai army officers approved the emergency border opening under humanitarian protocols. Medical staff were deployed with equipment and an ambulance to receive the patient in the middle of the border bridge linking the two countries.
The woman was successfully transferred to the Thai side by marine paramilitary troops, who then escorted her to Chanthaburi Hospital for immediate treatment under the supervision of specialized doctors.
Officials emphasized that while the border remains tightly controlled, exceptions are made in life-and-death situations under international humanitarian principles.
This incident highlights both the ongoing medical limitations in parts of rural Cambodia and the spirit of regional compassion. Thai authorities reaffirmed their willingness to assist in medical emergencies where lives are at stake, especially when requested through proper diplomatic channels.
