SA KAEO, Thailand – The atmosphere at the Khlong Luek border checkpoint in Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province, was subdued on the first day of the Thai-Cambodian border closure. Only a small number of cross-border students were seen passing through, while around 40 Cambodian nationals sat waiting in hopes of being allowed to return to their home country.
Following the military’s order to shut down all Thai-Cambodian border crossings, Cambodian nationals gathered at the checkpoint early this morning. Many were unaware of the border closure or believed the enforcement might be lenient. However, they were ultimately asked to wait until the evening window.
Thai authorities later announced that the checkpoint would be temporarily opened between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM today to allow Cambodian nationals to return home.
Although the order allows students to cross the border for schooling daily between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM, student traffic was notably light.
The Provincial Police Commander of Sa Kaeo deployed 170 crowd control officers to maintain safety and assist immigration officials in explaining the situation to those waiting. Most Cambodians expressed understanding and cooperated with the authorities.
In addition to Cambodian nationals, a few Thai citizens and other foreigners also arrived at the checkpoint, hoping to cross for work or personal matters. Despite the tension, the overall situation remained calm and orderly. (TNA)
